P-341: ‘Yes! to StenoYouth’: psychosocial outcomes of a peer-based group intervention for adolescents and young adults with type 1 diabetes
M B Christensen, C Wohlfahrt-Veje, C E Barfoed, K A Pilgaard, D Grabowski, M V IngersgaardAbstract
Introduction
Peer-based group-interventions addressing psychosocial burden and diabetes self-management in youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D) are not widely implemented in clinical care. ‘YES! to StenoYouth’ is a novel peer-based group intervention at Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, inspired by the ‘Youth Empowerment Skills’ (YES) program from UK. The intervention is a three-day program focusing on everyday life with T1D and psychosocial challenges through structured, peer-centered discussions.
Objectives
This study explored participants’ experiences and perceived outcomes of ‘YES! to StenoYouth’, including the peer-driven mechanisms through which these were generated.
Methods
In groups of 8–15 individuals, 41 completed the program. A qualitative, phenomenological study was conducted, and data were collected through semi-structured interviews 6-8 weeks post-intervention with 18 participants (mean [range] age 17.9 [15-22] years; diabetes duration 5.6 [0-18] years; HbA1c 56 [39-72] mmol/mol). Data were analyzed using an abductive approach.
Results
Preliminary findings showed that participation led to interconnected psychosocial outcomes shaped by peer interaction. Four themes were identified. 1: Peer relationships fostered shared understanding and reduced feelings of isolation. 2: Normalization of diabetes behaviour, emotions, and self-perceptions reduced self-criticism and diabetes-related distress. 3: Social comparison functioned as a motivational and regulatory mechanism, promoting reflection and adoption of adaptive self-management practices. 4: Participation reshaped perceptions of the clinical setting, enhancing agency in healthcare interactions.
Conclusions
Participation in ‘YES! to StenoYouth’ influences diabetes self-management through psychosocial mechanisms, including peer connection, normalization, and social comparison. This study highlights the importance of relational processes in diabetes care and supports integrating structured peer-based interventions into clinical practice.