The association of depression and perceptions of interpersonal relationships in patients with diabetes

Abstract 

Objective

Using an instrument assessing interpersonal relationships in patients with diabetes, we hypothesized that a change in depression would be associated with a change in patients' perceptions of themselves and others in relationships.

Methods

Instruments assessing attachment, depression, and demographics were administered twice to 367 patients with diabetes in an HMO primary care setting, 10 months apart. We assessed change in capacity to rely on others (model of other) and to feel worthy of attention (model of self) according to depression change categories (unchanged, decreased, and increased depression).

Results

The degree to which patients reported being able to rely on others increased with a reduction in depressive symptoms (P=.02). The degree to which patients endorsed a sense that they were not worthy of attention in relationships increased with an increase in depressive symptoms (P=.02).

Conclusion

A change in depressive symptoms is associated with a change in perception of interpersonal relationships in patients with diabetes.

Keywords: Attachment theory, Depression, Diabetes, Model of other, Model of self