WHAT IS DIABETES DISTRESS?
Diabetes distress is the term used to describe the emotional distress related to living with and managing diabetes. It encompasses the emotional and psychological challenges that come with managing the condition and affects people with all types of diabetes. Diabetes distress is not the same as clinical depression or anxiety. Instead, it is unique to the difficulties experienced by those living with diabetes.
However, some people may experience diabetes distress alongside other mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety.
Diabetes distress is common, although this varies across different populations. A meta-analysis study in people with type 2 diabetes found that around 36% experienced significant diabetes distress. Studies in individuals with type 1 diabetes have estimated that between 20 and 40% experience elevated or severe diabetes distress.
Diabetes distress has been found to be more common in women, younger people,
