New guidance puts diabetes distress assessment alongside glucose care for adults

The European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) has released its first clinical practice guideline to address diabetes distress in adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The guideline emphasizes that supporting the emotional well-being of people living with diabetes is a crucial component of care. It outlines eight Good Practice Statements, recommending that healthcare professionals discuss the emotional impact of diabetes at every consultation and assess distress using standardized tools.

Regular monitoring of distress should occur annually, but also during significant life events or treatment changes. If distress is identified, a joint plan should be developed with the person, and ongoing support tailored to their needs should be provided. Healthcare professionals should be trained to offer psychological support and know when to refer patients to specialists.

Evidence suggests that continuous glucose monitoring and automated insulin delivery can reduce diabetes distress in adults with type 1 diabetes, while other glucose management methods are not recommended for type 2 diabetes. While research gaps still exist, the guideline highlights the value of structured support, including psychological therapies, peer support, and technology-based interventions, in alleviating the emotional burden of diabetes.

EASD President Francesco Giorgino stated that despite advancements in diabetes treatments and technologies, the emotional burden of managing the condition has not diminished for many people. He emphasized that good diabetes care must address both physiological and psychological aspects of the disease. The EASD's guideline development process involved extensive input from people with lived experience of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, ensuring the recommendations are grounded in real-world needs and priorities.