Psychological factors in diabetes-related foot complications: A cohort study

Living with diabetes has been linked with an increased prevalence of psychological distress. Psychological problems may interfere diabetes-related foot complication (DRFC) self-management. We aimed to characterise psychological functioning in DRFC, and identify clinical factors that may be associated with psychological problems. Eighty-one participants (mean age = 62.8, SD = 11.3, range = 30-87) with DRFC were recruited from The Royal Melbourne Hospital. Each participant completed a battery of psychological questionnaires. DRFC participants endorsed an elevated prevalence of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress and diabetes distress. There were also maladaptive personality traits, differences in emotion regulation skills and negative illness perceptions. Previous mental health disorder, higher HbA1C levels and diabetes-related complications were also associated with greater psychological symptoms. Elevated prevalence of psychological symptoms is apparent in DRFC. Our study highlights the need to use targeted interventions to address psychological difficulties to help DRFC patients cope better with their condition.