Physical Activity, Depressive Symptoms, and Social Support Among African-American Women With Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

This descriptive-correlational study examined the associations among physical activity, depressive symptoms, and perceived social support in 45 middle-aged and older African-American women with type 2 diabetes receiving care in 1 of 3 community-based primary care centres in the southeastern United States. Of the participants, 82% reported weekly physical activity and 88% reported a high degree of social support. The prevalence of depressive symptoms was also high in the sample (n = 15; 30%), and depressive symptoms were associated with younger age and less social support. Further investigation of physical activity characteristics, depressive symptoms, and social support in African-American women with type 2 diabetes is warranted.