RESUMO
AIMS: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of anxiety and depression in groups of obese and normal-weight individuals with type 2 diabetes. Also, to analyze the severity of depression in type 2 diabetics by taking into account the body mass index in people with this condition. METHODS: This study included 702 patients with type 2 diabetes, 236 with normal weight, and 231 with obesity. All participants completed a demographic questionnaire, the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. RESULTS: In patients with obesity, 48.48% (95% CI: 41.82-55.14) were positive for anxiety and 49.78% (95% CI: 43.11-56.44) for depression. A significant correlation existed between the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and body mass index with a correlation coefficient of 0.11 (p = 0.003). Also, a significant correlation coefficient equal to 0.107 (p = 0.005) between the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale and body mass index was found. In addition, when we analyzed depression scores, significant differences were encountered for gender between normal-weight and obesity groups in the range of severe (p = 0.01) and very severe (p = 0.04) cases. CONCLUSION: In view of the existing relationships observed among obesity, depression, anxiety, and gender in type 2 diabetics, we consider that a psychological intervention is necessary for an integral management of these patients.