The prevalence of psychological distress in adults newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes: Data from the Australian 3D case‐series study

Abstract

AbstractIssue AddressedThis cross‐sectional analysis of the Australian 3D study aimed to determine the prevalence of psychological distress and describe its associated characteristics in adults recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.MethodsAdults (aged 18 years and over) who were recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (<6 months prior) were recruited through the Australian National Diabetes Services Scheme in 2018–2019. Demographic and health data were collected via interview‐administered telephone surveys. Hierarchical regression was used to analyse whether demographic, self‐care and clinical characteristics were associated with psychological distress, as measured by the K10 questionnaire.ResultsOf the participants (n = 223), 26.3% presented with psychological distress, with 8.4% reporting mild, 8.4% reporting moderate and 9.5% reporting severe psychological distress. Neither age, sex, body mass index or taking anti‐depressant medications were associated with the presence of psychological distress (p > .05). Being a smoker, living situation, less physical activity and poorer healthy eating beliefs and intentions were significantly associated with psychological distress in those not taking anti‐depressant medications (p < .05). Being female was significantly associated with psychological distress in those taking anti‐depressant medications (p < .05).ConclusionThe study found that psychological distress is highly prevalent in adults recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Behavioural factors such as smoking and low physical activity, as well as psycho‐social factors such as living situation, poor healthy eating beliefs and intentions were significantly associated with psychological distress. This has implications for the management of people with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes.So What?Psychological distress is highly prevalent in Australian adults newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, emphasising the urgent need for enhanced psychological care to support this group.