Geetha Appachu.
Consultant Psychologist, Swami Vivekananda Yoga Research Foundation, Bengaluru, India.
geeetaka03@yahoo.co.in

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Abstract

One of the oldest and most common metabolic disorders in the world, Diabetes Mellitus is a demanding condition with a major influence on the quality of life of patients and their families. This illness requires continuing medical care and management education.
Global prevalence of Diabetes Estimates for the year 2000 and projections for 2030 indicated India to be on top of the list of ten countries across the globe (Diabetic Care, May, 2004)

An attempt to highlight the need for psycho education, psychological counseling and relaxation techniques in the diabetic and care givers alike is demonstrated through this study. The objective was to identify the prevalence of distress, fear, worry, among Type II diabetics.
The data of 55 diabetics and 52 care givers/ family member were analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively. The Self report measure to analyze psychosocial concerns in the illness was developed along the lines of PAID, Problem Areas in Diabetes Scale (Polonsky.W H et al)

Results indicated that patients and care givers worry greatly about the future, are scared, and depressed in spite of being under medication and care. Knowledge of the illness (causes, management, drugs) was not a positive contributor to reduce their feelings and worry. Significant indicators in the dimensions of emotional problems, treatment – related problems, food – related problems and social support emphasizes the need for mind management.
There are several researches that evidence to the efforts in assessing the prevalence, management (pharmacotherapy and other alternative therapies like Yoga) of Diabetes. There is a need to address the psychological mechanism in managing the illness.