Adolescents’ experiences living with type 1 diabetes mellitus: A scoping review

Abstract

It is estimated that 1.1 million children and adolescents worldwide currently live with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), and the occurrence of T1DM is increasing worldwide. The aim of this scoping review was to explore adolescents’ experiences living with T1DM. This scoping review is reported in line with the PRISMA ScR checklist and undertaken using the steps recommended by Kazi et al. Database searches were conducted in Ovid Medline, Ovid Nursing, CINAHL and Google Scholar. A total of 12 studies were included and thematically analysed. The adolescents experienced negative emotions, such as fear, anxiety, irritation, sadness and feeling different from their peers, which disrupted their lives. Adapted support from parents, friends and healthcare professionals is crucial for adolescents coping with T1DM. Diabetes specialist nurses (DSNs) and further research should address medical treatment and consider the psychological aspects of adolescents living with T1DM that affect their self-identity and self-confidence.