Study: Diabetic students at higher risk of stress, depression

Diabetic students attending universities face a high level of diabetes-related distress mainly arising due to their concerns about living with this medical condition, a new study has suggested. According to the study published in the 'Journal of the American Osteopathic Association,' diabetic students who attended universities had high levels of diabetes distress, a condition of feeling worried and frustrated about living with diabetes. It is associated with fewer self-care behaviours, suboptimal glycemic control and lower quality of life.

"Anyone with diabetes will experience diabetes distress at some point, and it is often triggered by major life events or upheaval," said Elizabeth Beverly, a lead researcher on this study. The study surveyed 173 people with Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), who worked at or attended a university. High levels of diabetes distress were reported by 27 per cent of those with T1DM and 30 per cent of those with T2DM.

Participants who reported high diabetes distress also indicated a lower diabetes quality of life. Researchers found 19 per cent of those with T1DM and 17 per cent of those with T2DM screened positive for severe depression.

"The findings highlight just how difficult it is to live with diabetes. It requires daily management and despite a person's best efforts, diabetes remains a chronic, progressive disease that can decline over time," said Beverly.

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