Differences and similarities in the experience of living with diabetes distress: A qualitative study of adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes

Aims To explore the lived experiences of diabetes distress (DD) in adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and to identify similarities and differences in these experiences. Methods We conducted in‐depth interviews with people with type 1 (n = 19) and type 2 diabetes (n = 29). We conducted thematic analysis using NVivo 12 software. Results We identified three themes: (1) Experiencing Diabetes Distress as a Lack of Control – Similarities: All participants voiced a perceived lack of control with their glucose levels and other peoples' misconceptions about diabetes. Differences: Nearly all type 1 participants described a “lack of control” over emotional reactions to hypo‐ and hyperglycaemia as opposed to only one type 2 participant. (2) Experiencing Diabetes Distress as a Burden of Constant Management – Similarities: All participants emphasized the nonstop, relentless nature of diabetes management. Differences: type 1 participants described self‐care as vital, with life‐threatening consequences if not performed, while type 2 participants did not perceive such dangerous consequences. (3) Understanding the Value of Social Support in Diabetes Distress – Similarities: All participants acknowledged the importance of having others recognize the difficulties of living with diabetes. Differences: type 1 participants noted actual experiences where peers and health care professionals acknowledged that burden, whereas type 2 participants expressed a desire for this support that was not present in their lives. Conclusions Findings revealed subtle differences in perceptions of DD among adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, which suggest a need to tailor treatment for people with each type of diabetes.