SCREEN FOR DIABETES DISTRESS AND ADDRESS SPECIFIC CAUSES

An estimated 36% of people with type 2 diabetes experience diabetes distress — the emotional and psychological strain associated with managing diabetes.¹ Though it is frequently overlooked as part of routine diabetes care (possibly because it is not an official diagnosis with an ICD-10 code), it is associated with worse health outcomes.^1,2 Physicians can use validated screenings to assess the severity of distress and identify the specific concerns that are causing it, such as hypoglycemia, long-term health issues, shame/stigma, interpersonal issues, or health care access.

Physicians can then address those concerns, or make referrals to appropriate resources like Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialists, behavioral health, or other social services. Even spending a couple minutes with a patient discussing their emotional well-being can make them feel supported and empowered in their diabetes self-management.