Understanding behaviour change maintenance after attending a self‐management education and support programme for type 2 diabetes: A longitudinal qualitative study

People may experience difficulties in maintaining behavioural changes post-DSMES programmes. Programmes should address the role of emotions, psychological and physical resources and environmental and social influences in behaviour change maintenance and promote the development of skills for longer-term management, including self-regulation, behavioural autonomy, intrinsic motivation and habit formation. As some people may also benefit from longer-term, ongoing support, digitally delivered with occasional sessions involving peers and educators beyond 12 months should be considered. Suggestions for ongoing support include progress monitoring, expert guidance, educational updates, troubleshooting opportunities and encouragement and motivational support.