The "China Guidelines for the Prevention and Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes (2020 Edition)" highlights the prevalence and significant impact of psychological issues such as pain, anxiety, and depression on individuals living with diabetes, emphasizing the need for increased attention and support in managing these aspects of the condition.
Pain, anxiety, and depression in diabetes patients often stem from excessive psychological stress, which can not only exacerbate mental health problems but also compromise blood sugar control. Two specific psychological stressors commonly experienced by diabetics are needle phobia and blood phobia.
Needle Phobia A medically recognized specific phobia, needle phobia involves an intense, irrational fear of needles leading to behavioral disturbances. Individuals with this condition may exhibit symptoms such as trembling at the mere thought of needles, avoiding any association with them, or experiencing extreme fear and anxiety. Studies indicate that needle phobia affects a substantial portion of children, with a prevalence of around 20-50% in adolescents, decreasing to 20-30% by young adulthood. Systematic desensitization, which involves gradual exposure to needles in imagination or reality under the guidance of a psychologist, can effectively alleviate this fear.
Blood Phobia Also known as Eyer or Eine Syndrome, blood phobia is characterized by a sudden onset of symptoms like dizziness, nausea, palpitations, and pallor upon encountering fresh blood. This specific phobia can lead to reflexive bodily responses such as fainting, blood pressure fluctuations, and loss of consciousness. Similar to needle phobia, blood phobia can be treated through desensitization therapy, where patients are incrementally exposed to blood under controlled conditions, allowing them to build tolerance over time.
Psychological Stress in Children with Diabetes Children with diabetes, particularly those with type 1, face unique challenges during their formative years. They must adhere to strict dietary restrictions, learn to administer insulin independently at school, and cope with the knowledge that their daily routines differ significantly from their peers. These pressures can lead to feelings of isolation and fear of being misunderstood, laughed at, or discriminated against by classmates and friends. Concealing their condition to avoid stigmatization adds further stress, as they must discreetly manage insulin injections and blood glucose monitoring, potentially compromising their diabetes management and risking complications. Open communication with trusted friends and understanding that many children are familiar with diabetes through their grandparents can help alleviate these concerns.
Psychological Stress in Adolescent Diabetics Adolescence, a critical period of physical and psychological development, presents distinct challenges for teenagers with diabetes. Conflicts may arise between teenagers and their parents over blood sugar control, such as disagreements about attending social events or dealing with high blood sugar readings. Both parties experience pressure: teenagers feel obstructed and distrusted, while parents worry about their child's health. Clear, calm communication and, if necessary, professional psychological counseling can help bridge these misunderstandings and reduce stress for both adolescents and their parents.
Psychological Pressure on Female Diabetics Female diabetics face additional psychological strain, particularly when considering childbirth. Women with diabetes are at higher risk for depression and anxiety due to hormonal changes, heightened concerns about their child's health, and potential difficulties in raising a child. To mitigate these pressures, women planning to conceive should engage in comprehensive pre-pregnancy planning, receive regular medical care, and adopt a healthy lifestyle. It is crucial to understand that while diabetes susceptibility can be inherited, it is not a certainty, and adopting proactive measures can greatly reduce the likelihood of offspring developing the disease.
In summary, addressing the psychological dimensions of diabetes is vital for effective disease management and overall well-being. Recognizing and addressing specific stressors like needle and blood phobias, fostering open communication and support networks for children and adolescents, and providing tailored guidance for female diabetics contemplating motherhood are essential components of a holistic approach to diabetes care.