Diabetes Distress: The Hidden Challenge in Diabetes Care

When we talk about diabetes management, the conversation often centers on blood sugar levels, carb counting, and insulin dosing. But there’s another important aspect that deserves equal attention: diabetes distress. 
 

What is diabetes distress? 

Diabetes distress refers to the emotional burden and worries that come with managing diabetes day in and day out. It’s not just about the physical demands — it’s about the mental load as well. Research suggests that people with diabetes may have to make up to 180 decisions per day related to their condition.¹ That kind of constant mental engagement can be overwhelming.

In September 2025, the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) released its first evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for assessing and managing diabetes distress among adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.² The guidelines are a game-changer because they recognize that managing diabetes isn’t just about blood sugar, but emotional well-being, too. 
 

Why diabetes distress matters 

Diabetes distress isn’t a niche issue; it affects people across the spectrum — from those newly diagnosed to people who have lived with diabetes for decades. And it’s more than just an emotional challenge: Diabetes distress impacts self-care, motivation, and overall health outcomes. When people feel burdened, they’re less likely to stick to treatment plans, which can lead to complications. 

As one of the largest diabetes technology companies, we recognize our responsibility to understand these experiences and reduce burden wherever possible. Supporting emotional well-being is just as important as providing advanced technology. 
 

Insights from experts 

We were privileged to invite Michelle Law, a working mom, MiniMed Champion, and blogger who has lived with type 1 diabetes for over 18 years, to share her experience with our employees as part of our ongoing efforts to understand the experiences of people with diabetes from around the world. Michelle served as a member of the Guideline Development Panel (GDP) for the EASD Diabetes Distress Guidelines. 

Her role specifically involved ensuring that the patient perspective and real-world needs were integrated into the guideline's development, from shaping clinical questions to interpreting evidence and formulating recommendations. 

These guidelines are critical because they shift the focus beyond glucose numbers to the emotional realities of living with diabetes. By recommending routine screening, personalized care plans, and psychological interventions alongside standard care, they help healthcare teams address the mental burden that can undermine self-care. Integrating emotional support into standard diabetes care ensures people feel understood, empowered, and better equipped to manage their condition. 
 

Reducing distress through better support 

Every improvement, whether it’s clearer instructions, smarter technology, or better educational resources, can help reduce distress. When people feel confident and in control, their emotional burden gets lighter. That’s why our focus isn’t just on innovation, but on empowering people with diabetes to feel supported both physically and emotionally. 
 

The bottom line 

Diabetes distress is real, and addressing it is essential for better health outcomes. By combining advanced technology with empathetic, personalized support from people who “get it,” we can help our customers not only manage their diabetes, but live well with it.  
 

Frequently asked questions  
 

Q: How is diabetes distress different from depression? 
A: Diabetes distress is specifically related to the emotional burden of managing diabetes. While it can feel similar to depression, it’s not the same. Distress is often tied to frustration, burnout, or feeling overwhelmed by daily diabetes tasks. 

Q: Who experiences diabetes distress? 
A: Anyone living with diabetes (whether newly diagnosed or managing the condition for decades) can experience distress. It’s normal, common, and can look different for different people. 

Q: How can technology help reduce distress? 
A: Devices that automate tasks, provide real-time feedback, and simplify management can ease the burden. But education and personalized support are key to making technology truly effective. 

Q: What can I do if I feel diabetes distress? 
A: Start by acknowledging it — it’s real and valid. Talk to your healthcare team, reach out to the MiniMed Champion community, and explore resources designed to help with emotional well-being. Small steps, like setting realistic goals and using tools effectively, can make a big difference. 

References 
1. Fisher, L., Hessler, D.M., Polonsky, W.H., & Mullan, J. (2019). “When Is Diabetes Distress Clinically Meaningful? Establishing Cut Points for the Diabetes Distress Scale.” Diabetes Care, 42(5), 791-796. 
2.  Speight J, Hermanns N, Jensen W, et al. EASD evidence-based clinical practice guideline for assessing and managing diabetes distress in adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Eur Assoc Study Diabetes. Published online 2025. Accessed December 16, 2025. https://www.easd.org/uploads/Final-Draft_EASD-Diabetes-Distress-Guideli…