Exploring support and stress among caregivers of children recently diagnosed with diabetes

To describe the various support resources and their effect on stress levels among caregivers of children recently diagnosed with diabetes mellitus.

In this cross-sectional study, primary caregivers of children diagnosed with diabetes in the past 6 months were recruited to complete an anonymous online survey measuring caregiver stress (Pediatric Inventory for Parents, difficulty sub-scale) and 3 types of caregiver support (informational, emotional, and instrumental) using a researcher-developed scale. Descriptive statistics were used to examine the 3 types of caregiver support. Multiple linear regression was used to determine the effect of support on caregiver stress levels within each support type.

The most frequently utilized resources identified by participants (n = 51) were the healthcare team for informational support (76.5 %) and family for emotional and instrumental support (82.4 % and 66.7 %, respectively). In the unadjusted regression model, utilizing support from another caregiver of a child with diabetes was associated with higher stress (Unstandardized B = 21.33, 95 % CI [3.23, 39.43], p = .022), while support from a diabetes organization was associated with lower stress (Unstandardized B = -20.98, 95 % CI [-41.47, -0.50], p = .045). Models were adjusted based on caregiver and child demographics.

As the incidence of diabetes among children continues to rise, ensuring caregivers have access to effective resources is critical. Resources that help reduce caregiver stress should be prioritized.

The healthcare team should continually refine their educational services and ensure that caregivers' informational, emotional, instrumental support needs are being met through a variety of accessible resources.