The Intersection Between Diabetes and Mental Health: The Critical Role of Psychologists in Type 1 Diabetes Care
When most people think of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), they think of insulin, blood sugar monitoring, and dietary management. But there’s a part of diabetes care that often goes unnoticed – the emotional toll it takes on those living with it, especially children, adolescents, and young adults. That's where psychologists come in.
Living with Type 1 Diabetes isn’t just a physical challenge. It's not a sprint, it’s a mental marathon. And no one should have to run it alone.
The Emotional Burden of T1D
From the moment of diagnosis, life with T1D becomes a constant balancing act – between food and insulin, activity and rest, highs and lows. For children, this can be overwhelming. For parents, it can be emotionally exhausting. Type 1 Diabetes is 24/7. There are no days off. That level of responsibility – especially for a young person – can wear anyone down.
Studies show that people with Type 1 Diabetes are at a higher risk for:
Depression
Anxiety
Diabetes distress (including burnout from managing the condition)
Disordered eating (especially in young people)
Children may feel different from their peers, fearful of nighttime lows, or angry (and sometimes rebel) at the constant rules around food and activities. And parents may carry intense guilt or fear about their child's future.
This is where a psychologist becomes a crucial member of the diabetes care team.
How Psychologists Help
1. Emotional Coping and Adjustment
Psychologist can help children , adults, and families process the diagnosis and adjust emotionally. They provide a safe space to talk about the frustration, fear, and sadness that often accompany chronic illness.
2. Managing Diabetes Burnout
Sometimes, the weight of daily diabetes management becomes too much. A child, adolescent or even adult might start ignoring their continuous glucose monitor (CGM), skipping insulin doses, or acting out. A psychologist can help address these behaviours, offering coping strategies to manage burnout and stay engaged in self-care.
3. Supporting Parents and Families
Caring for a child or young person with T1D impacts the whole family unit. Psychologists can help parents and caregivers navigate their own stress and anxiety, improve communication, and set healthy boundaries. They also support siblings who might feel left out or confused.
4. Helping with Behavioural Issues and Routines
Younger children may resist finger pricks or injections. Teenagers may struggle with body image, disordered eating, or risk-taking behaviours. Psychologists use behavioural strategies and cognitive techniques to help young people cooperate with care routines and build long-term healthy habits.
5. Addressing Co-Occurring Mental Health Conditions
Mental health concerns like depression, ADHD, eating disorders or anxiety can make managing T1D even harder. A psychologist can help assess, diagnose and treat these conditions, providing a more comprehensive approach to care.
What to Look for in a Psychologist
If you're looking for a psychologist to support you, your child or your family, consider:
Someone with experience in paediatric chronic illness
A psychologist familiar with Type 1 Diabetes
Someone who collaborates with your child’s endocrinologist, diabetes educator, and school
Final Thoughts
Managing Type 1 Diabetes isn’t just about insulin and numbers – it’s about resilience, relationships, emotional well-being, and living a meaningful and fulfilling life. Psychologists can help children, adults, and families build the mental and emotional tools they need not just to survive, but to thrive.
So, if you're feeling overwhelmed or if your child is struggling emotionally, ask your diabetes care team about incorporating a psychologist into your care plan.