Dealing with anxiety: A pilot cognitive behavioural therapy program for diabetic clinic outpatient attendees

Abstract 

Aims

To assess a group-based cognitive behaviour therapy [CBT] program in diabetes.

Methods

Sixty people with diabetes were randomly allocated to either immediate (29) or 3months delayed (31) CBT groups.

Results

DASS scores were reduced by 0.37 standardised [effect-size] units [P<0.01], with a tendency for more marked reductions in anxiety and stress [0.60] among those for whom treatment had been delayed whose HbA1C fell by 0.93% . ADDQoL scores also improved in the short-term but these changes did not persist at 6months.

Conclusions

The CBT program led to short-term improvements in anxiety, depression, stress and quality of life.

Keywords: Cognitive behavioural therapy, Anxiety, Diabetes