Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 13, 2026

A High-Throughput Multiplexed Screening for Type 1 Diabetes, Celiac Diseases, and COVID-19
Published on: July 5, 2022
Psychosocial Illness in Children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: Prevalence, Pattern and Risk Factors
Shikha Khandelwal1, Ghanshyam Singh Sengar2, Monika Sharma1
13rd Year Resident, Department of Paediatrics, S.P. Medical College , Bikaner, Rajasthan, India .
Insights
Children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) have a higher risk of psychosocial illness, including irritation, depression, and anxiety. Poor metabolic control and diet compliance are associated with these conditions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Child Psychology
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) significantly impacts children's well-being, with psychosocial implications often overlooked in India.
- Understanding the interplay between T1DM and mental health is crucial for comprehensive pediatric care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence, severity, and patterns of psychosocial illness in children with T1DM.
- To identify factors associated with psychosocial illness in this population.
Main Methods:
- An observational study involving 84 children (6-14 years) with T1DM and 100 non-diabetic controls.
- Utilized the DSM-5 Cross-Cutting Symptom Measure for assessment of psychosocial illness and severity.
- Collected socio-demographic data and measured HbA1c levels.
Main Results:
- Children with T1DM exhibited a significantly higher prevalence of psychosocial illness (55.95%) compared to controls (20%).
- Common issues included irritation (38.1%), depression (36.9%), and anxiety (32.1%), with moderate to severe forms prevalent.
- Psychosocial illness correlated with poorer metabolic control (HbA1c > 7.5), poor dietary compliance, and higher HbA1c levels.
Conclusions:
- T1DM is a significant risk factor for psychosocial illness in children.
- Irritation, depression, and anxiety are the most frequent manifestations.
- Routine psychosocial assessment is recommended for all children with T1DM for effective management.
Introduction:
Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) and psychosocial illness influence each other in multiple ways. The extent of psychosocial disorders in children with T1DM remains largely unstudied in India.
Aim:
To assess the prevalence, severity, pattern and variables affecting psychosocial illness in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus.
Material And Methods:
This observational study included 84 children (6-14 years of age) having T1DM at least for 1 year and 100 non diabetic children for comparison. "DSM-5 parent/guardian-Rated Level 1 & 2 Cross-Cutting Symptom Measure -Child age 6-17" was used to assess psychosocial illness, specific domains and severity. Socio-demographic variables were studied and HbA1c levels were measured.
Results:
Significantly higher prevalence of psychosocial illness was observed in children with T1DM as compared with non diabetic group (55.95% vs 20%; p<0.0001). The prevalence for mild, moderate and severe psychosocial illness was 8.33%, 27.38% and 20.24% respectively in diabetic children. Most common psychosocial abnormality was irritation (38.1%), followed by depression (36.9%) and anxiety (32.1%). The prevalence of psychosocial illness was significantly higher in T1DM patients with poorer metabolic control (HbA1c>7.5, p=0.014). Significant association of psychosocial illness was also noticed with poor dietary compliance (p=0.021) and higher mean HbA1c level (p<0.001).
Conclusion:
This study established T1DM as a risk factor for development of psychosocial illness. Irritation, depression and anxiety were most common abnormalities. Significant association of psychosocial illness with poor dietary compliance and poor metabolic control was observed. Psychosocial assessment of every diabetic child is suggested for optimal management.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Diabetes Mellitus: Overview and Type I Subtype
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body is unable to produce sufficient insulin, and individuals with...
Pathophysiology of Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is characterized by autoimmune-mediated destruction of pancreatic β cells, with environmental factors potentially triggering this process in genetically susceptible individuals. Despite many not having a family history, certain genes increase susceptibility,...
Psychoneuroimmunology: Diabetes and Cancer
Diabetes Mellitus: Type 2 and Gestational
Psychological and Sociocultural Causes of Schizophrenia
Diabetes: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Complications

