| I've been a Type 1 for almost 22 years and went through the typical "phases" of becoming a diabetic (denial etc..). I never experienced any type of depression (I don't think). I was 22 years old when I was diagnosed and was a Police Officer in N.Y. at the time. Along with the job goes a bit of attitude ( Not a moron attitude but, a lot of confidence etc...).I began to notice symptoms of depression somewhere around 2002-2003. I began to feel tired, lethargic, non-focused etc...Initially, I thought, it was my blood sugars or I was just tired (I was no longer worked law enforcement, I went out on a disability in 1998).
The feelings I was having became more pronounced as time went on and I thought it was in my best interest to go to counseling to sort through issues in my life. Diabetes was and always will be there but, I also dealt with some family issues (brothers etc..taking care of an elderly parent on my own...). I was diagnosed with major depression and began on medications. I felt great at first and then it seemed as if I "went flat" again. I went on a different medication and in 2007, I took a nose dive with emotions. I was either angry or really down in the dumps. At that point, I went to a psychiatrist and was diagnosed with bi-polar disorder. I was given another medication in addition to the first which then curbed the radical changes in mood.
I still deal with stressful situations (who doesn't) but, I seem to contend with them in a much more positive way. Needless to say, the condition had a profound effect on my work performance. I spoke to my idiot manager and kept him advised every step of the way. I told him of my re-diagnosis, to which, he replied "You're lying" (I still don't know when he got his M.D.) I then asked if he would work with me until I got back on my feet (An ADA accomodation). His response: "we don't have to do anything for you. If you can't do your job, that's tough." I was terminated several weeks later (Feb '08) and haven't been able to find a job yet, due to the ailing economy. Yes, I filed EEOC charges however, the process moves slowly (They are short of investigators). I sit and think how great it would be if we ended up in a courtroom and a judgment was handed down in my favor. Not for the monetary (well, sort of) but, more for ethical and principle reasons. I'd love to rub this in my managers face!!
I always wondered if depression in diabetics was the result of an individual having to contend with a chronic illness day in and day out, if it was a chemical imbalance or some other type of physiological reason or if it was possibly a combination of both. And the hits just keep on comin'  | 
