A Practical Approach to Mental Health for the Diabetes Educator

In the US 17.9% of individuals are affected by mental illness. Individuals with diabetes are at greater risk for depression and other psychosocial difficulties compared to the general population. Diabetes educators have identified depression, anxiety, diabetes distress, mild cognitive impairment, intellectual disabilities, maladaptive eating behaviors, dementia, and psychotic disorders as mental health conditions most commonly encountered in practice. Diabetes educators need to be equipped with resources that complement the psychosocial management for people with diabetes. Here, Gonzalvo et al provide diabetes educators with a practical guide to help support persons with or at risk for diabetes and concurrent psychosocial concerns.