Use of technology to improve mental health in type 1 diabetes

Abstract

The psychological impact of diabates on people living with the condition is well recognized. About a third of the patients report levels of emotional distress (diabetes distress, anxiety, depression, fatigue) that warrant psychological support. International guidelines (IDF, ADA, EASD) recommend a mental health professional to be integral part of the diabetes care team. However, there is lack of psychological staff and expertise and evidence-based psychological interventions are rarely implemented in routine diabetes  care.

In short, access to mental health services for people with diabetes is limited across settings, resulting in under treatment, leading to suboptimal mental health, negatively affecting quality of life and diabetes outcomes. More psychologists need to be trained and appointed at diabetes care centers, but this is likely not going to be sufficient. The use of technology can help expand reach at relatively low costs, including tele-consulting and offering internet/mobile phone-based psychological treatments. Examples will be given of both guided and unguided  diabetes-specific psychological interventions.