The Effectiveness of Cognitive-Behavioral Stress Management Training on Glycemic Control, Psychological Distress and Quality of Life in People with Type2 Diabetes

Objectives: This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral stress management training on glycemic control, psychological distress (depression, anxiety and stress) and quality of life in people with type2 diabetes. Method: 60 type2 diabetic patients (34 females and 26 males; mean age 49.5 ± 5.7 years) were studied. They were randomly divided to two groups. Members of one group attended 10 weekly sessions of cognitive-behavioral stress management training, while other group did not. Test of HbA1c and, DASS and quality of life questionnaires were administered on both groups before and after intervention. This assessment procedure was repeated within 3 months follow up. Results: After intervention HbA1c, psychological distress and quality of life improved significantly (p < 0.01) in trained patients, but there was no significant change in these measures in control group. These results remained constant within 3 months follow up. Conclusion: Results show that cognitive-behavioral stress management training is an effective intervention to improve glycemic control, psychological well-being and quality of life in people with type2 diabetes.