Strengthening skills to address diabetes distress
Diabetes distress is the emotional burden, frustration, and burnout stemming from the relentless, 24/7, self-management demands of living with diabetes.
The profound impact of diabetes distress on a person’s capacity for self-care cannot be overstated. Recognising this, the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) recently introduced its first-ever clinical practice guideline dedicated to the emotional burden of the condition. This landmark document establishes emotional health not as a secondary concern, but as a fundamental pillar of diabetes management.
This shift in clinical focus is a cornerstone of the University of Leicester’s MSc module, "Self-management: Diabetes and Long-Term Conditions," which is available as a standalone CPD (Continuing Professional Development) module beginning in March 2026.
Designed for the modern practitioner, this module bridges the gap between policy and practice. Participants will:
Master clinical communication: Gain the practical skills necessary to initiate meaningful, empathetic dialogues regarding emotional well-being within a consultation.
Analyse the evidence: Explore the rigorous research and global policy frameworks, including the latest 2026 EASD guidelines, that underpin successful self-management interventions.
Reflect on practice: Engage in a deep exploration of personal beliefs and values to better understand how they influence behaviour change and outcomes of people living with diabetes.
Janet Jarvis, counsellor and nurse, and co-lead of the module shared, “Our MSc alumni consistently report that this module is the most transformative element of their post-graduate studies, fundamentally reshaping how they approach care when working with people living with diabetes.”
Dr Michelle Hadjiconstantinou, Behavioural Scientist and co-lead of this module added, “It is therefore important to ensure that our module remains up to date with the latest guidelines on the psychosocial aspects of diabetes.”
We invite you to join our global distance-learning community this March to develop personally and professionally, connect with peers, and make a difference to the lives of people living with diabetes.
Find out more and apply for the course today.
Stock image for illustrative purposes.
Latest LDC News:
