New diabetes and mood tool for clinicians

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Diabetes UK has launched a new tool to assist clinicians treating diabetic patients who are feeling emotionally low or depressed.

Depression is twice as common in people with diabetes. The impact of a diagnosis could trigger such feelings, as well as the new responsibilities faced when it comes to managing the condition. There is also the fear of any future complications such as blindness and amputation.

Despite this, less than four people with diabetes have access to appropriate emotional and psychological support.

The Mood Information Prescription aids clinicians in having a structured conversation with a patient if they are feeling anxious or fearful about their condition. It provides;

  • a description of the key signs of depression and anxiety to look for in a person
  • advice and tips about how a person can start to feel better
  • a ‘My Next Steps’ section to encourage goal setting
  • a signpost to Diabetes UK careline service and further information.

Diabetes UK Senior Healthcare Engagement Officer, Louise Cripps, said: "The Diabetes and Mood Information Prescription helps healthcare professionals provide psychological support to patients which is vital for many people living with diabetes. We want this new tool to initiate a conversation about emotions and encourage a person with diabetes to think about what they can do to improve their mood. Initiating such conversations can be difficult but this focus on psychological wellbeing can help a person manage their condition, minimise their risk of developing serious complications and can lead to better clinical outcomes for their diabetes."

For more information please visit the Diabetes UK website.

Published 27th April, 2017

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