The role of creative expression in diabetes: an exploration into the meaning-making process

In this narrative exploration of meaning making through the use of creative arts, we recorded the experiences of 8 women with type 1 diabetes. Through a conceptual framework of creative expression as a way of knowing, we designed this study to evoke affective and metaphorical connections to the meaning of diabetes. The initial narrative interview findings reflected the experience of the participants, with three primary themes emerging: experiencing negative emotions about diabetes, putting a positive "spin" on the negative as a way to make meaning, and resisting against diabetes and the medical approach. During the creative arts process, we encouraged further exploration into the meaning-making process using imagery and photographs created by the participants. Final interview findings addressed the need for moving beyond numbers, and attention to the meaning-making process in patient care.