Over 1.5 million Australians live with diabetes – a relentless, demanding condition with day-to-day challenges that can affect their emotional wellbeing. Yet people living with diabetes demonstrate remarkable strengths, resilience and adaptability every day.
New research from The Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes sheds light on the strengths and resources that help people with diabetes thrive. The study, led by Dr Edith Holloway and primary author Dr Narelle Robertson, was reported in Diabetic Medicine earlier this year.
‘We interviewed 32 adults across Victoria with type 1 or type 2 diabetes to discover what helps them feel good, what barriers they face and what they need to live well and maintain positive emotional wellbeing,’ said Holloway.
A Community Advisory Group of people with diabetes informed the research, co-developed the interview process and helped interpret the initial findings. ‘It was important that the voices of people with diabetes were heard, that we acknowledged their individual strengths, experiences and agency to live well with diabetes,’ said Robertson.
Study participants identified supportive relationships, peer connections and empathetic health professionals as key to living well with diabetes. Self-acceptance of their condition and personal strengths, such as resilience, problem solving, and healthy coping skills also fostered greater wellbeing.
Despite the strengths, participants reported difficulties accessing mental health support, such as long wait times, costly services, limited availability, and finding diabetes-informed psychological services.
‘A real gap in the healthcare system is mental health support for people with diabetes. Participants told us they wanted more integrated care that recognises both the physical and emotional aspects of living with diabetes. Diabetes health professionals who understand the daily demands of diabetes play a crucial role in supporting emotional wellbeing through compassionate care,’ said Holloway.
Furthermore, the research highlighted the importance of reducing stigma and misconceptions about diabetes.
‘Many participants described experiences of judgement or misunderstanding in healthcare, workplaces and the broader community,’ said Robertson. ‘Creating greater awareness and understanding of the realities of living with diabetes can help people feel more supported and less alone.’
Ultimately, the findings suggest that supporting emotional wellbeing in diabetes care is not only about addressing challenges but recognising and building on the strengths people possess. By shifting the conversation from ‘what’s wrong?’ to ‘what’s strong?’, the researchers hope to contribute to more person-centred approaches that help people with diabetes thrive.
Read the paper titled: Shifting the narrative from ‘what’s wrong?’ to ‘what’s strong?’ MIND-MAP: A qualitative study exploring positive mental health and support needs of adults with diabetes
Read more about Dr Edith Holloway’s research
Read more about Dr Narelle Robertson’s research
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