Mental health comorbidities in adolescents and young adults with type 2 diabetes.

The study relied on self-report screening scores for depressive symptoms and diabetes distress, so the findings are based on what patients reported on questionnaires. Only 64 AYAs were included at one tertiary pediatric diabetes center, so the rates may not apply to other populations or care settings. The design was cross-sectional, so it cannot show whether diabetes distress, insulin use, insurance status, or depression caused or followed one another. For patients screened more than once, only the first screening was used, so changes over time were not measured.

The authors declare no relevant conflicts of interest. Data from this study were presented at the virtual American Diabetes Association Scientific Sessions in 2020.

Do not read the 22% rate of high depressive symptoms or the 9% rate of suicidal ideation as proof that screening improves diabetes care. The study measured routine self-report screens in 64 AYAs with type 2 diabetes and did not test a screening intervention or patient outcomes.