The role of psychology plays a varied role in diabetes

Psychology could play a vital role in tackling diabetes, according to researchers.
A series of articles which focused on the condition combined with the power of the mind were published in a special edition of American Psychologist called Diabetes and Psychology.
The documents looked at how current and potential contributions of psychological science can affect the well-being of people with or at risk of developing diabetes.
Among the 10 articles in the special issue were Understanding Diabetes and the Role of Psychology in its Prevention and Treatment and Psychology, Technology and Diabetes Management.
The social context of diabetes was reviewed by Deborah Wiebe and colleagues at the University of Utah. The review spread its focus across the positive and negative effects on management of relationships with family, friends and partners.
The role of psychological conditions, such as depression, anxiety and disordered eating is another factor that can play a complicating role in diabetes management.
Other aspects which the articles covered were the role of changing technology, medication adherence and behavioral intervention programs.
Dr Christine Hunter, from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, part of the National Institutes of Health, said: “Diabetes is a common, chronic and costly condition that currently affects millions of people in the United States and worldwide, with even greater numbers at high risk for developing the disease.
“Behavioral, psychological and social factors play an important role in the delay or prevention of type 2 diabetes as well as the self-management and coping skills required to prevent or delay complications in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
“Psychologists and psychological research have an important role to play in improving the prevention and care of diabetes.”