SAT-638 The Human Side of Diabetes: A Study on Emotional and Social Burdens

Abstract Disclosure: A. Jain: None. P. Dyavarishetty: None. Diabetes is more than a chronic illness; it is a lifelong companion that often leaves invisible scars on a person’s psyche. While its physiological complications, such as retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy, are well-documented, the psychosocial challenges faced by individuals with diabetes remain underexplored. Our study aimed to assess the psychosocial distress experienced by diabetic individuals across four domains: emotional, physician-related, regimen-related, and interpersonal distress. A Cross-sectional Descriptive Study: was conducted among 62 diabetic patients from low socio-economic backgrounds registered at the Urban Health Training Center of K.J. Somaiya Medical College, Mumbai, between January and March 2019. The participants, diagnosed with diabetes for at least one year, were recruited using OpenEpi Version 3 for sample size determination. Data were collected through structured interviews in Hindi, adapted to the Indian urban context, after obtaining informed consent. Key variables included Age, Sex, Religion, Educational Status, Income, Occupation, and Marital Status. Our findings revealed the emotional toll of diabetes: 16% of participants reported feeling unhappy, with this sentiment most prevalent among those aged 55-65, living alone (23.8%), employed (19.5%), or managing comorbidities (18.9%). Over one-third (38.7%) felt depressed when reflecting on their condition, and 29% admitted to feelings of fear, while nearly half (48%) reported stress. Anger was a recurring theme, affecting 29% of participants, primarily those who had lived with diabetes for 5-10 years (33.3%). Physician-related and regimen challenges were also significant. Approximately one-third struggled with adhering to medical advice and managing daily medications. Interpersonal distress emerged as 23% of participants perceived a lack of support from friends and family. However, faith played a pivotal role, with 80% believing God could cure their diabetes and 79% crediting their faith for better disease management. Despite these challenges, all participants expressed satisfaction with their physicians, a silver lining in an otherwise heavy narrative. Diabetes, while debilitating to the body, can shatter the spirit. Yet, it need not define a person’s life. By addressing the psychosocial aspects of this condition, we can foster resilience and encourage patients to reclaim their inner strength. Ultimately, diabetes only overcomes us if we let it. Presentation: Saturday, July 12, 2025