Changing the Narrative: Confronting Diabetes-Related Stigma in Healthcare

Stigma refers to negative attitudes and beliefs that are directed at individuals based on perceived differences, such as living with diabetes. Stigma is commonly experienced by those with diabetes. Stigmatization often originates from healthcare professionals (HCPs) who may be unaware of the consequence of their judgemental attitudes on patients and on how personally challenging living with diabetes can be. A lack of empathy from HCPs can risk individuals choosing not to manage their diabetes as advised or even seek support. Harmful comments may also evoke feelings of guilt or shame in individuals, which can further affect their mental wellbeing and ability to self-care appropriately. Wider HCP understanding and appreciation of the impact of stigma in diabetes care could do much to help individuals with diabetes feel supported and understood and not judged. More constructive, person-centred dialogue offered by HCPs, such as avoiding using the threat of developing diabetes complications to drive individual behaviour change has the potential to contribute to better outcomes in diabetes and improve the confidence of individuals living with diabetes in their healthcare teams.