In a significant finding ahead of World Diabetes Day, a survey by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) revealed that 78% of Pakistanis living with diabetes experience anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues related to their condition. Conducted online from September 9 to October 9, the survey included responses from 1,880 participants, with 200 from Pakistan.
The study highlighted that 72% of respondents pointed to the fear of developing complications as the leading cause of mental health challenges. Other contributing factors included difficulties in accessing medicines and supplies (69%), lack of adequate support from healthcare professionals (65%), and the burdens of daily diabetes management (62%).
The results underscored a pressing need for improved emotional and mental health support, with 78% of Pakistani participants seeking better care from their healthcare providers. A striking 88% of those surveyed reported experiencing “diabetes burnout,” often feeling frustrated or overwhelmed by the daily responsibilities of managing their condition. Alarmingly, 79% of those suffering from burnout admitted to stopping or interrupting their treatment due to stress or feeling overwhelmed.
Prof Abdul Basit, vice chairman of the Health Promotion Foundation, emphasized the severity of these findings, noting, “Over 32 million people currently live with diabetes in Pakistan, with projections indicating this could reach 33% of the adult population by 2045. This suggests that the mental health of over 25 million people could be impacted by the burden of managing diabetes.”
Prof Basit called for a shift in diabetes care, urging a more holistic approach: “While diabetes impacts both physical and mental health, care often focuses solely on blood sugar management. We need to look beyond blood sugar for a better diabetes life.”
This World Diabetes Day, the IDF is advocating for healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities to acknowledge the significant toll diabetes takes on mental health. By prioritizing well-being in diabetes care, health outcomes and quality of life for millions globally could see marked improvements.
