PSYCHOSOCIAL ISSUES IN ADOLESCENTS WITH TYPE 1 DIABETES MELLITUS

ABSTRACT: Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a form of DM that results from autoimmune destruction of insulin producing beta cells of the pancreas. There is enough discussion about the pharmacological management of the disease but its psycho-sociological aspect has not been explored much. Patient with T1DM often experience psychological stress during the first year of diagnosis. , Approximately 36% of patients have some sort of psychiatric disorder in the first year, which may be related to both stress and treatment side effects. The lifelong administration of insulin, a restricted diet and complications from diabetes can cause great difficulties in living a normal life for patients. For optimum survival, psychological monitoring must be done along with medical treatment beginning from the diagnosis. A multidisciplinary team should be involved to assess newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes mellitus. The team should include a pediatric endocrinologist, nurse educator, dietician and mental health professional to provide specific education and support for patients. Interaction between parents, nurses, doctors and the school authority must be ensured to monitor the child's progress closely. Above all, proper education of self-care must be given so that the child can cope with his/her existing disease and maintain self-confidence while ensuring self-management. In addition, it is important that he/she adapts to life at large. KEYWORDS: Type 1 Diabetes mellitus, Adolescence, Psychological stress, Psychosocial issues, Self management