P-195: Impact of institutional support systems (family/workplace) on mental health among young adults with diabetes mellitus type 1 : pyschosocial determinants of mental health)
R S Nungu, F NyoniAbstract
Introduction
While diabetes control remains the primary focus in clinical settings among youth living with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), their prognosis is also influenced by their family support, socioeconomic status, and institutional environments (school or work). Inadequate support in these areas may lead to poor metabolic control and mental issues, yet these factors are rarely taken into consideration.
Objectives
To assess the impact family, work or school support, and socioeconomic status on the mental health of youth with T1D.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted to 80 youth with Type 1 DM aged 18-35 years using a multi-dimensional assessment tool. The study utilized a Combined Risk Matrix to analyse data from four key domains: Family Support, School/Work Environment, Depression and Stress. A scoring system was applied using PHQ-9 for Depression Assessment, PROMIS, (PSS-10) and BTSD. Data were analysed to identify correlations between psychosocial determinants and mental distress.
Results
Analysis indicates that lack of support from family or work showed more depressive symptoms .65% of participants reported that school or workplace environments lacked knowledge on Diabetes leading to increased anxiety. This was also directly correlated with elevated scores in the PROMIS Sleep and PSS-10 scales, indicating that lack of support in social institutions is a primary driver of mental distress.
Conclusions
Poor institutional support has a significant impact on mental health of youth with T1D in Tanzania. Families still have a big role in offering financial and emotional support meanwhile work or school institutions are also expected to offer support and minimise distress. Clinical interventions must expand to include family counselling and school/workplace advocacy to improve diabetes literacy among employers.