The Relationship Between Depression and Perception of Sexuality in Patients with Type II Diabetes: In Turkey

Abstract

This descriptive study investigated the relationship between depression and perceptions of sexuality in people with type II diabetes. The study population comprised all patients who came for check-ups at the polyclinic for diabetes at Istanbul Okmeydani Training and Research Hospital between November 2010 and February 2011. One hundred patients were willing to participate in the study and met the participant criteria. Socio-demographic characteristics, perceptions of sexuality, and other factors related to diabetes were evaluated from information provided by participants. The Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) was used to evaluate depression. Results revealed an average depression score of 16.34 +/- A 8.06. The average level of depression was higher in women, those whose level of education was low, and the unemployed. Of the participants, 53% reported that diabetes has affected their sex life adversely. There was no relationship between level of depression and aspects of the illness. However, level of depression was related to sexual satisfaction. Findings suggest that depression and sexually related problems should be addressed when providing care for people diagnosed with type II diabetes.