In a nutshell
This study investigated if diabetes-related distress and depressive symptoms had an impact on self-care in patients with type 2 diabetes. They found that elevated distress reduced the level of self-care in these patients.
Some background
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease. Self-care is important to manage symptoms and prevent complications such as kidney or heart disease. Patients with chronic diseases experience a significant psychological impact. Many patients experience diabetes-related distress (challenges and stress cause by the condition), depression and fatalism (which is a describes a state of despair, hopelessness and powerlessness). It is not clear how these factors together affect self-care in diabetes.
Methods & findings
615 adults with type 2 diabetes were included in this study. Patients completed questionnaires to assess emotional distress and depressive symptoms. The level of self-care was assessed based on diet, exercise and blood glucose testing. HbA1c levels (average blood glucose over 3 months), which indicate how well the diabetes is being controlled, were also measured.
Increased diabetes distress was directly associated with decreased self-care. Depressive symptoms and fatalism were indirectly associated with decreased self-care, indicating they were associated with higher diabetes distress.
The bottom line
This study concluded that diabetes-related distress has a negative impact on self-care in patients with type 2 diabetes.
The fine print
This study shows an association between diabetes distress, depressive symptoms and fatalism. However, the relationship between these factors is complex. Each patient will experience these symptoms differently and to varying degrees.
What’s next?
Please discuss your diabetes self-management with your doctor if you are concerned.
Published By :
Journal of Diabetes and its Complications
Date :
Sep 30, 2016
