Improving Mental Health in Diabetes: A Guided Self-Help Study

Improving Mental Health in Diabetes: A Guided Self-Help Study

This study employs a Randomised Controlled Trial design to investigate whether a CBT-based guided self-help intervention can improve anxiety, depression, psychological well-being, quality of life, Diabetic self-care and adherence; as compared to controls. The study aims to recruit 42 individuals with Diabetes and mild to moderate anxiety or depression. Anxiety and depression are common in patients with Type 2 Diabetes, and has been shown to affect Diabetes control. Literature suggests that CBT can benefit individuals with Diabetes and comorbid mental ill-health, however little research has been done to date on the effect of guided self-help in this population. It is expected that this intervention will improve patient's mental health, as well as extend the limited knowledge-base on guided self-help in chronic illness.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Individuals with a diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes with mild-moderate anxiety and/or depression (scoring 8 to 15 on the HADS scale) will be recruited, provided they do not meet any one of the exclusion criteria listed below. Patients will be able to provide written informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Individuals with a history of clinically diagnosed psychotic symptoms, schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
• Participants with a known Learning Disability or severe visual impairment.
• Participants who cannot read or write
• Participants under 18 years of age or over age 75
• Long-term hospital inpatients
• Individuals with a diagnosis of Diabetes secondary to a major physical condition (consultation will be sought from medical professionals where appropriate on an individual basis)