Psychosocial Challenges Of Adolescents Living With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) is the most common endocrine disorder among young people worldwide. Living with T1DM as an adolescent can be psychologically and socially challenging. However, nursing care often concentrates on physical needs, such as treatment adherence and preventing physical complications. This study aimed to explore the psychological and social challenges faced by adolescents living with T1DM in the Ghanaian context. Methods Using a descriptive phenomenological study, fourteen adolescents (aged 12–17 years) living with T1DM were purposively sampled from the Paediatric Endocrinology Unit of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi, Ghana. Face-to-face individual interviews were conducted using an interview guide and data analyzed thematically. Results The two themes; psychological challenges in living with T1DM and social challenges in living with T1DM and eight subthemes identified revealed that adolescents with T1DM expression emotional challenges such as sadness, fear, behavioural changes, and spiritual beliefs about the origin of their condition. The social challenges experienced by adolescents with T1DM included stigma, social isolation, secrecy, and disruption to schooling. The adolescents’ psychosocial challenges were interrelated and often impaired their overall well-being. Conclusion Adolescents living with T1DM face similar psychological and social challenges as their peers elsewhere. However, their belief that T1DM has spiritual causes highlights the need to enhance their understanding of their condition, while supporting their psychosocial wellbeing.