“Over 1 in 3 people with diabetes experience distress in relation to their condition. More than 60% of people with diabetes feel fear at the idea of developing serious diabetes-related complications with a negative impact on their general well-being. personal well-being becomes a priority in the care and assistance model for people with diabetes”. Riccardo Candido, president of the Federation of Italian diabetes societies, said this at the opening of the meeting - today in the Senate – promoted by Senator Daniela Sbrollini for World Diabetes Day, during which the ‘Let’s team up around diabetes’ campaign was presented, created from FeSDI.
Candido then read the letter that the Federation sent to the Minister of Health Schillaci on the occasion of World Diabetes Day 2024: “FeSDI joins the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), we appeal so that all the necessary measures can be adopted to accelerate the implementation of the WHO objectives shared in the Global Diabetes Compact, the coverage target by 2030 to protect and safeguard the physical and mental well-being of people with diabetes”. “on behalf of the Italian diabetes community – concluded Candido – we therefore ask you to dedicate sufficient resources to improve the physical and mental well-being of people with diabetes in Italy to prevent the disease today and protect those who will live with it tomorrow” .
Title: Addressing Diabetes Distress: An Interview with Riccardo Candido, President of the Federation of Italian Diabetes Societies
Q1: Riccardo, thank you for joining us today. You mentioned that over 1 in 3 people with diabetes experience distress related to their condition. Can you elaborate on why this distress is so prevalent among diabetic patients?
Riccardo Candido: Thank you for having me. The distress experienced by individuals with diabetes often stems from the constant management of their condition. Living with diabetes requires not just lifestyle adjustments but also an ongoing psychological toll, as many fear complications and the potential decline in their quality of life. This fear can lead to significant emotional distress, impacting overall well-being. Over 60% of those with diabetes express anxiety about developing serious diabetes-related complications, which illustrates how critical personal well-being has become in the diabetes care model.
Q2: You recently spoke at a Senate meeting for World Diabetes Day. What were the main objectives of this meeting, and how do initiatives like ‘Let’s team up around diabetes’ play a role in addressing these issues?
Riccardo Candido: The meeting was focused on advancing awareness and support for those living with diabetes. The ‘Let’s team up around diabetes’ campaign aims to foster a collaborative approach to diabetes management, emphasizing the importance of mental and emotional support alongside physical health. We believe that by teaming up—educating, sharing resources, and providing community support—we can reduce the distress faced by patients and improve their quality of life significantly.
Q3: In your letter to Minister of Health Schillaci, you called for sufficient resources to support diabetes care. What specific measures do you believe should be prioritized?
Riccardo Candido: We urge that resources be allocated to implement the objectives outlined in the WHO’s Global Diabetes Compact. These include enhancing access to healthcare, increasing funding for diabetes research, and creating support programs focused on mental well-being. Prioritizing these areas will not only aid in current diabetes management but also work towards preventing the disease in future generations.
Q4: What practical advice would you give to individuals managing diabetes who may be experiencing distress?
Riccardo Candido: First, it’s essential to seek support—whether from healthcare professionals, support groups, or family. Having a network can alleviate feelings of isolation. Additionally, mental health should not be neglected; engaging with a psychologist or counselor specializing in chronic conditions can provide valuable coping strategies. Lastly, educating oneself about diabetes can empower individuals to take control of their health, which is often a source of great fear and anxiety.
Q5: How does the Federation of Italian Diabetes Societies plan to work with the International Diabetes Federation to promote mental well-being for those living with diabetes?
Riccardo Candido: We are committed to a unified approach with the International Diabetes Federation. This collaboration will allow us to amplify our voice on important initiatives and resources needed. By working together, we aim to influence policy changes and create awareness campaigns that address both physical and mental health needs for those living with diabetes.
Q6: In your experience, what is the most significant gap in diabetes care that needs addressing?
Riccardo Candido: One of the most significant gaps is the integration of mental health support into usual diabetes care. While physical symptoms of diabetes are often managed well, the psychological aspects are frequently overlooked. As emphasized in our campaigns, acknowledging and addressing the mental well-being of individuals with diabetes is crucial for holistic care.
Conclusion: Through candid discussions and community efforts, we can work towards alleviating distress and empowering those living with diabetes. By prioritizing mental well-being alongside medical care, we can create a supportive environment that fosters healthier lives for individuals affected by diabetes.