Coping with diabetes: The 15 S coping skills list

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Behavioral Medicine
• Psychology

Background:

• Diabetes management involves significant psychological and behavioral challenges.
• Diabetes distress negatively impacts quality of life and adherence to treatment.
• Existing coping strategies may lack structure and objectivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present and categorize 15 essential coping skills for managing diabetes.
• To introduce a structured framework, the 15 S list, for diabetes self-management.
• To provide a practical tool for healthcare professionals in diabetes care.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive list of 15 coping skills was compiled and organized.
• Skills were classified into five distinct domains: thought, words, planning, motivation, and action.
• The '15 S list' rubric was developed as a structured intervention aid.

Main Results:

• The 15 S list provides a categorized, actionable set of coping strategies.
• The framework enhances structured thinking and intervention in diabetes care.
• The list offers practical solutions for addressing diabetes distress.

Conclusions:

• The 15 S list is a valuable resource for individuals with diabetes and their care providers.
• This structured approach can improve the management of diabetes distress.
• Implementing the 15 S list can lead to an enhanced quality of life for people living with diabetes.