The Impact of a Mindfulness-Based Intervention on Type 2 Diabetes Patients’ Empowerment

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus includes a group of common metabolic disorders with a diagnostic hyperglycemia phenotype. The global prevalence of diabetes mellitus has increased dramatically over the last two decades. Recognizing the psychological problems of these patients and eliminating or reducing them is an important part of the complete approach to the treatment of diabetes, and this is why, with psychotherapy, better findings can be achieved in blood glucose control. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of a combined intervention based on mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and mindfulness-based Stress Reduction and on the empowerment of type 2 diabetes patients.

Methods: This study was performed as a pilot in 48 patients with type 2 diabetes, split into three groups with 16 members. Data collection was done through the Anderson Empowerment Questionnaire, which was designed for people with diabetes. Data were analyzed utilizing the statistical analysis of covariance (ANCOVA).

Results: The findings showed that the combined mindfulness-based intervention improves the management component of psychological aspects more than the mindfulness-based stress reduction intervention. Also, none of the interventions performed significantly improved the components of readiness and dissatisfaction for change, and the evaluation component of the achievement of diabetes control goals.

Conclusion: The combined use of mindfulness techniques is more effective for empowering people with diabetes.