The dynamics of coping and adaptating to the impact when diagnosed with diabetes

The coping trajectory of a group of people who were insulin dependent (Type 1 diabetes n = 109) was compared with that of a group people who were non-insulin dependent (Type 2 diabetes n = 241). The experience of the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus (DM) was different for both groups. Type 1 people were more likely to feel the impact of the diagnosis more severely than Type 2 people and were more likely to use avoidance, denial and fantasy strategies in their attempts to cope with the diagnosis and its implications. The residual effects of not being ill were more likely to be felt by Type 2 group. Those who showed determination not to be beaten by the disease tended to use more positive coping techniques in making the adjustment. Illustrative path diagrams for both the Type 1 and Type 2 groups are presented. Health professionals need to recognise the likely differences in order to provide the most appropriate care.