Exploring Psychoemotional Well-Being in Caregivers of Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: Results From the “10Vida” Intervention Program

Abstract

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a chronic disease that typically manifests during adolescence, a period already characterized by the challenges of complex development. The role of the family in providing emotional support and managing the disease is of paramount importance. The present study introduces “10Vida,” a program encompassing two sessions focused on providing psychosocioemotional support and adjustment to the disease, aimed at primary family caregivers of adolescents with DM1. The objective of this study is to analyze the psychological benefits of having received these two intervention sessions. Participants were primary family caregivers of adolescents aged 12–16 years with T1DM. The study consisted of two phases: (1) an intersubject study with 10 caregivers in the experimental group and 9 in the control group, who were assessed before and after the intervention, and (2) an intrasubject longitudinal study with 13 caregivers assessed at three points in time: two before and one after the intervention. The results showed a reduction in anxiety, depressive symptoms, and perceived stress in the experimental group. Intrasubject analysis showed reduced emotional distress and perceived stress associated with caregiving tasks. These findings highlight the importance of providing caregivers with practical strategies and emotional support to improve their ability to manage chronic diseases such as T1DM, contributing to improved psychological outcomes and quality of life for both caregivers and adolescents.