6920 Engagement and Mood assessments in Emerging Adults Attending a Multi-disciplinary Diabetes Transition Clinic

Abstract Disclosure: G.P. Thota: None. S. Glaros: None. S. Dixon: None. S.T. Chung: None. Introduction & Objective: Transitioning to adult diabetes care can be challenging and associated with interruption in care, worsening glycemic control, and social stress. However, most studies have been conducted in emerging adults (YA) with type 1 diabetes (T1D), and contemporary data in multi-disciplinary clinics designed with supportive resources, especially for YA with youth-onset type 2 diabetes (Y2D) is lacking. Our objectives were to assess mood and engagement in psychology therapy services within a structured multidisciplinary diabetes clinic. Methods: This was a single-center observational analysis of YA (18-30y) attending a research diabetes transition clinic supported by clinical coordinators, social navigators, a certified diabetes educator, and a nutritionist between January 2021 and December 2023. All YA were offered free transportation to and from visits. Clinical coordinators communicated regularly for appointment reminders. Mood was assessed with Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and the General Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) at each visit and Endocrine Society Transition Readiness Form at initial visit. In January 2023, all YA were given the option to meet with a clinical psychologist during the diabetes visit. Student t-test were used to compare groups using STATA v.18. Results: In 62 YA (73% Y2D, 10% T1D, 17% other) aged 20.2±2.7y, BMI:37.3±9.6 kg/m2, all engaged in nutrition counseling and 52% (32/62) utilized transportation services. A diagnosed psychiatric disorder was present in 16% (10/62). At initial visit, PHQ-9 scores were 6.1±6.3, n=62 and39% (24/62) had score >8 (moderate depression). Within the last 2 weeks, 13% (10/62) reported suicidal ideation. GAD-7 scores were 6.0±6.3 and 54% had anxiety that interfered with activities of daily living. Psychology services were accepted in 61% (38/62) with higher initial GAD-7 scores in those who saw psychologist (8.2±6.8 vs. 4.1±5.3, P=0.02) but no difference in PHQ-9 scores (7.2±6.6 vs. 5.1±5.9, P=0.2). Most YA (81%) reported adequate diabetes knowledge while 25% YA reported diabetes-related challenges including feeling burned out, not knowing how to navigate specialty diabetes care, challenges with medication insurance, transportation, and insurance coverage. Conclusion: Approximately 50% of emerging adults with diabetes reported moderate depression and anxiety scores and were interested in engaging in psychology services. Transition diabetes care programs should focus on increasing access to routine integrated mental health services and social support.Such an initiative could potentially ameliorate psychological stressors associated with diabetes management during the transition to adult care. Presentation: 6/1/2024