Symptoms of depression are associated with reduced leisure-time physical activity in adult individuals with type 1 diabetes

AIMS: Here, we investigated the association between depressive symptoms and leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) in type 1 diabetes. METHODS: Data from adult individuals with type 1 diabetes without evidence of diabetic kidney disease or macrovascular complications, participating in the Finnish Diabetic Nephropathy Study, were included. Based on a questionnaire, weekly LTPA as metabolic equivalent of task hour was calculated. Activity levels (inactive, moderately active, active), weekly frequencies (< 1, 1–2, > 2), intensities (low, moderate, high), and single session durations (< 30, 31–60, > 60 min) were assessed. Depressive symptomatology was evaluated using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). We calculated a continuous BDI score and divided participants into those with (BDI score ≥ 16) and without (BDI score < 16) symptoms of depression. For sensitivity analyses, we additionally defined symptoms of depression with antidepressant agent purchases within a year from the study visit. RESULTS: Of the 1339 participants (41.7% men, median age 41 years), 150 (11.2%) reported symptoms of depression. After adjustments, both higher BDI scores and depressive symptomatology were associated with more inactive lifestyle, and lower frequency and intensity of the LTPA. The BDI score was additionally associated with shorter single session duration. For antidepressant purchases, lower odds were observed in those with higher intensity and longer single session duration of LTPA. CONCLUSIONS: Depressive mood is harmfully related to LTPA in type 1 diabetes. In order to improve the long-term health of individuals with type 1 diabetes, efforts to increase both mental well-being and physical activity should be taken. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00592-021-01718-6.