Media Appearances
Click below to see the ACBRD featured in health media, general media, and podcasts.
Health Media
2022
Diabetes ¿una patología con estigma? (Diabetes, a pathology with stigma?)
1 December 2022 | Sociedad Española de Diabetes
What is stigma? To determine if diabetes is a condition that stigmatizes, it is useful to clarify this term. Within the psychosocial field, the concept of stigma was developed in the middle of the last century by Erwing Goffman.
Ways to Alleviate Diabetes Distress: Tips and Resources
21 November 2022 | DiaTribe
People with diabetes may feel overwhelmed by the daily tasks of managing the condition, which can lead to burnout. Here are some suggestions on how to reduce some of that distress.
Open Letter to the Victorian Government Re: Community Call for Victorian Diabetes Plan
14 November 2022 | Diabetes Australia
On behalf of the more than 374,000 Victorians living with diabetes and their families, we call upon the government to make an election commitment to develop a Victorian Diabetes Plan to prioritise support for Victorians living with diabetes.
Uso Del Lenguaje En Diabetes (Use Of Language In Diabetes)
5 November 2022 | Dulcesito Para Mi
We often find ourselves in environments where the use of language is not fully monitored. The right of every individual to be identified as he or she prefers is undeniable. Labeling yourself, nickname, and naming yourself is your own decision that cannot be rejected.
25 October 2022 | Australian Centre for Health Services Innovation (AusHSI)
MTPConnect and the Minister for Health and Aged Care, The Hon. Mark Butler MP, have announced $6.7 million funding for nine diabetes and cardiovascular disease research projects through the Targeted Translation Research Accelerator (TTRA) program.
15 medical research and technology projects receive millions of funding
25 October 2022 | Healthcare Channel
15 cutting-edge medical research and technology projects will receive a total of $16.9 million from the Australian Government to accelerate their transition into clinical practice. The projects all have tremendous potential to transform the lives of people here and around the world.
World Diabetes Day 2022: Access to diabetes care
24 October 2022 | Diabetes NSW & ACT
World Diabetes Day (14 November) 2022 continues the ‘access to diabetes care’ campaign, stretching 2021-2023. However this year specifically focuses on, the need for better access to quality diabetes education for the healthcare workforce and people living with diabetes.
HypoPAST a world-first online psycho-educational program to reduce hypoglycaemia-related anxiety
24 October 2022 | Institute for Health Transformation (IHT)
HypoPAST will be the world’s first fully online psycho-educational program designed to reduce hypoglycaemia-related anxiety through improved prevention and management of hypoglycaemia.
$16.9M for cutting edge medical innovations
21 October 2022 | Medical Buyer
Fifteen cutting edge medical research and technology projects will receive a total of $16.9 million from the Australian Government to accelerate their transition into clinical practice. The projects all have tremendous potential to transform the lives of people here and around the world.
$16.9 million for cutting edge medical innovations
21 October 2022 | BioMelbourne Network
Fifteen cutting edge medical research and technology projects will receive a total of $16.9 million from the Australian Government to accelerate their transition into clinical practice. The projects all have tremendous potential to transform the lives of people here and around the world.
Diabetes and Sexual Dysfunction: How to Find a Balance
12 October 2022 | Very Well Health
On top of all the other health concerns related to diabetes, there is also an increased risk of sexual dysfunction in people of any sex or gender living with this all-too-common disease.
National Diabetes Week｜全国糖尿病周 [Cantonese | 广东话]
21 September 2022 | Chung Wah Community Care 中华社区服务
Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing chronic conditions in Australia. Approximately 282 people across the nation are diagnosed with the condition every day. In fact, more than 128,000 people are living with diabetes in Western Australia alone. According to the Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes (ACBRD), more than 80% of people have been judged, blamed, shamed, or treated differently due to their diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2).
10 tips to help support your teen living with T1D
14 September 2022 | JDRF Australia
Dr Adriana Ventura is a nationally registered psychologist who worked as a Research Fellow at the Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes (ACBRD) for six years. Read on for 10 tips to help support your child – and you – through adolescence and beyond.
Finding Your Diabetes Support Network
12 September 2022 | DiaTribe
When you’re diagnosed with diabetes, your healthcare providers can’t answer all your questions. Meeting others with diabetes can be a great way to learn from experience. Diabetes advocate Renza Scibilia discusses her experiences finding social support at different stages throughout life.
Supporting your teen through the challenges of T1D
30 August 2022 | JDRF Australia
Adolescence comes with its own set of new challenges for any parent, but what is it like if your teenager also has type 1 diabetes (T1D)?
National Diabetes Week runs from 10 – 16 July, 2022
16 July 2022 | Berwick Pharmacy
Research conducted by the Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes (ACBRD), found that four out of five people living with diabetes have experienced stigma at some point. People living with type 1 and type 2 diabetes both reported feeling this way.
15 July 2022 | GV Health
According to the Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes, four out of five people living with diabetes have experienced stigma at some point in their lives. This week is National Diabetes Week and this year’s theme is tackling diabetes-related stigma through the campaign: ‘Let’s Rethink Diabetes’.
13 July 2022 | The Pharmacy Guild of Australia
In year three of the Heads Up on Diabetes campaign, Diabetes Australia is focusing on challenging diabetes-related stigma during National Diabetes Week which is running from 10-16 July. Research conducted by the Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes (ACBRD), found that four out of five people living with diabetes have experienced stigma at some point.
National Diabetes Week 2022: Diabetes stigma and your mental health
7 July 2022 | JDRF Australia
Did you know that four out of every five people living with diabetes have experienced stigma? A 2021 study by the Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes found that more than 80% of people with diabetes “have been judged, blamed, shamed, or treated differently due to their diabetes”.
National Diabetes Week Australia 2022
5 July 2022 | First Aid Courses Darwin
The week-long event aims to promote awareness about the disease and encourage people to be open and talk about their condition. This year’s focus will be on the emotional health and well-being of people living with Diabetes and the challenging stigma that goes with it.
4 July 2022 | The University of Queensland Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences
National Diabetes Week (10 – 16 July) promotes the strong mental and emotional impact that negative labels and beliefs can have on people living with diabetes. According to the Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes, four out of five people with diabetes have experienced stigma at some point.
National Diabetes Week runs from 10 – 16 July, 2022
4 July 2022 | Berwick Pharmacy
Research conducted by the Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes (ACBRD), found that four out of five people living with diabetes have experienced stigma at some point. People living with type 1 and type 2 diabetes both reported feeling this way.
Peran Keluarga Terhadap Penyandang Diabetes (The Role of Families for People with Diabetes)
29 June 2022 | EKA Hospital
People with diabetes or commonly called diabetes are increasing every year. Based on data from the International Diabetes Federation in 2021, there are 19.47 million diabetics, the number far exceeds previous predictions.
Need for regular monitoring despite stigma
28 June 2022 | Retail Pharmacy Assistants
A new study from the Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes (ACBRD) has found that four out of five people living with diabetes have experienced some sort of stigma and that having diabetes more than doubles the risk of developing depression.
Diabetes Stigma – Heads Up Campaign DA 2022
24 June 2022 | Maxlop
Many individuals with diabetes expertise diabetes stigma day-after-day by way of feedback that choose, blame and disgrace them for having diabetes, for a way they handle it and for creating problems. Analysis carried out by the Australian Centre for Behavioural Analysis in Diabetes (ACBRD), discovered that 4 out of 5 folks dwelling with diabetes had skilled stigma sooner or later.
Μην ντρέπεσαι για τον διαβήτη σου (Don’t be ashamed of your diabetes)
24 June 2022 | Glykouli.G
Diabetes stigma is a huge public health problem that has been shown to lead to worse health outcomes. At the 82nd ADA Scientific Sessions, four leading experts in this field discuss the prevalence of stigma, interventions to address this issue, and the work that remains to be done.
22 June 2022 | Aberfoyle Park Medical Centre
This year, National Diabetes Week runs from 10 – 16 July and continues the “Heads Up” campaign, focusing on the mental and emotional health of people living with diabetes. For 2022, the spotlight is on challenging diabetes related stigma and mental health.
ADA Report. It’s Time to Address Diabetes Stigma
7 June 2022 | Dagens Diabetes
Diabetes stigma is a huge public health problem that has been shown to lead to worse health outcomes. At the ADA 82nd Scientific Sessions, four leading experts in this field discuss the prevalence of stigma, interventions to address this issue, and what work still needs to be done.
Language and imagery used around diabetes perpetuating condition’s stigma: expert
6 June 2022 | Aged Care News
The foundation director of Australia’s leading behavioural research centre in diabetes, Professor Jane Speight, has presented to the 82nd Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association on how harmful diabetes stigma can be to people living with this serious condition.
Weight bias and diabetes: “stigma motivates no one”
6 June 2022 | Beyond Type 1
Among the many stigmas people with diabetes face, weight bias is one. In a session on "Stigma in Diabetes Care" presented at the ADA's 82nd Scientific Sessions, Rebecca Pearl, Ph.D., focused on this topic and the steps we can take as a society to address our Structural, interpersonal, and intrapersonal biases about weight.
6 June 2022 | Beyond Type 2
Among the many stigmas people with diabetes face, weight bias is one. In a session on "Stigma in Diabetes Care" presented at the ADA's 82nd Scientific Sessions, Rebecca Pearl, Ph.D., focused on this topic and the steps we can take as a society to address our Structural, interpersonal, and intrapersonal biases about weight.
6 June 2022 | Beyond Type 2
The stigmas around diabetes are well-known to the people who live with it, but it is a real problem that needs to change. Can healthcare professionals and people with diabetes change society’s perception of diabetes? Can spreading greater awareness and understanding change how those without diabetes talk about the disease? Experts discuss proposals for actionable ways to eliminate the stigma problem that plagues the diabetes community.
The negative impact of diabetes stigma: “words create reality”
5 June 2022 | Beyond Type 1
The stigmas around diabetes are well-known to the people who live with it, but it is a real problem that needs to change. Can healthcare professionals and people with diabetes change society’s perception of diabetes? Can spreading greater awareness and understanding change how those without diabetes talk about the disease? Experts discuss proposals for actionable ways to eliminate the stigma problem that plagues the diabetes community.
Stigma is a significant, often overlooked obstacle in diabetes management
5 June 2022 | ADA Meeting News
Words make a difference when managing diabetes, especially when people with diabetes start to believe the negative words they hear about themselves.
It’s Time to Address Diabetes Stigma
4 June 2022 | DiaTribe
Diabetes stigma is a huge public health problem that has been shown to lead to worse health outcomes. At the ADA 82nd Scientific Sessions, four leading experts in this field discuss the prevalence of stigma, interventions to address this issue, and what work still needs to be done.
27 May 2022 | Highbury Medical Centre
This year, National Diabetes Week runs from 10 – 16 July and continues the “Heads Up” campaign, focusing on the mental and emotional health of people living with diabetes. For 2022, the spotlight is on challenging diabetes related stigma and mental health.
E166: New Efforts to Combat Diabetes and Obesity Stigma in Clinical Settings
16 May 2022 | Duke Sanford World Food Policy Center
Our guests today are Matthew Garza and Nick Cuttriss. Matthew is Managing Editor at The diaTribe Foundation. Nick Cuttriss is a pediatric endocrinologist, and is founder of the ECHO Diabetes Action Network, and also has served on an advisory committee for the diaTribe Foundation. Matthew and Nick have been integral to a novel and welcome program on diabetes stigma that launched recently, that can be seen at the website, dstigmatize.org.
3 March 2022 | Diabetes AC
The research, conducted at the Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes, showed that psychological resistance to insulin treatment existed despite the recommendations of patients' doctors, with this group of reports raising further concerns or fears about insulin therapy.
Online education may ease insulin fears of adults with type 2 diabetes
28 February 2022 | Endocrine Today
Adults with type 2 diabetes viewing a web-based psychoeducational resource reported feeling less negatively about insulin at 2 weeks compared with baseline, according to study data published in Diabetic Medicine.
15 February 2022 | Sykepleien
It can be psychosocially stressful to have type 1 diabetes. Diabetes-related concerns can be mapped through the PAID questionnaire.
15 February 2022 | Diabete Net
Those with type 2 diabetes may already know this: although insulin therapy is the most effective treatment for maintaining optimal blood glucose levels, most of the time we tend to postpone its initiation.
24 January 2022 | Fórum Intersetorial de Combate às Doenças Crônicas Não Transmissíveis
The release of this material took place during the Live Celebration of the 100 years of the 1st Successful Application of Insulin in Humans , on January 23, 2022.
17 January 2022 | Portal Hospitais Brasil
In addition to the debates on the 100th anniversary, the unprecedented material “Linguagem Importa!” will be released during the event. ( Language Matters ).
$20m Committed to Launch Leading National Research Centres for Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease
14 January 2022 | MTP Connect
Two major new Research Centres will be established in Australia, with $20 million committed through the Targeted Translation Research Accelerator (TTRA) initiative, delivered by MTPConnect.
2021
The 9 most popular ADEA webinars of 2021
16 December 2021 | Australian Diabetes Educators Association
The holidays are a great time to watch some of your favourite ADEA webinars of this year or to catch up on the ones you missed. Here are the 9 most-watched webinars of 2021.
14 December 2021 | Danish Diabetes Academy
Type 2 diabetes has long been considered a condition of the elderly, but worldwide, the number of people diagnosed with younger-onset type 2 diabetes (aged under 45 years) is increasing.
10 December 2021 | UOL
Sexual dysfunctions may not be the consequences most associated with diabetes , but they are also present in patient complaints. The impact of the disease on the metabolic, neurological, vascular, hormonal and emotional conditions of men and women contribute to these symptoms.
NACCHO Aboriginal Health News: Invest in public health before next pandemic
7 December 2021 | NACCHO Communique
Chief Health Officers and public health leaders from across Australia will today, 7 December outline their ideas for the future of Australia’s Public Health Workforce in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Professor Greg Johnson discusses the Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes
18 November 2021 | Diabetes Australia
As the CEO of Diabetes Australia, Professor Greg Johnson's leadership put a greater focus on the mental and emotional health challenges associated with living with diabetes.
Sexual dysfunctions common in adults with diabetes
17 November 2021 | Healio
About one-third of adults with diabetes have sexual dysfunction, and sexual dysfunction is associated with greater diabetes distress and worse emotional well-being and anxiety for women, according to a study published in Diabetic Medicine.
Language Matters Global Summit
27 October 2021 | Diabetogenic
Last week’s Diabetes Australia Language Matters Global Summit was a terrific, snack-sized event that packed a lot into (just over) an hour. An absolutely stellar panel including Greg Johnson, Jane Speight, Partha Kar, Stephanie Haack, Nina Tousch and Tim Skinner made for an interesting, hopeful, encouraging and enjoyable discussion.
Benefits of DIY diabetes technology creates a loyal community of ‘loopers’
26 October 2021 | The Limbic
Open-source or ‘do-it-yourself’ artificial pancreas systems (APS) are here to stay regardless of the pace of development and approval of commercial systems. That’s the collective opinion in a study of 23 Australian adults with type 1 diabetes who have already elected not to wait and instead gone down the DIY ‘loopers’ route.
Language Matters Global Summit
20 October 2021 | A Fresh POV for You!
We’re taking a bit of a detour this week in our “Diabetes Technology and Solution-Focused Practice” series to focus on a special event – a Facebook Livestream Language Matters Global Summit. We @AFreshPOVForYou have been supporters of the #LanguageMatters movement in diabetes care and education since early on.
17 October 2021 | CEO at Australian Diabetes Society
Last week two important events occurred with remission and type 2 diabetes in Australia. The first was that Diabetes Australia together with the Australian Diabetes Society, Australian Diabetes Educators Association and The Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes released a Type 2 Diabetes and Remission Position Statement - a well-written and well-balanced document (I am biased of course!). The second was a program on SBS about diabetes remission with @DrMichaelMosley and Ray Kelly.
8 October 2021 | Deakin University
Australians living with diabetes and cardiovascular disease will benefit from improved mental health support, thanks to a new Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF)’s $5.2 million Target Translation Research Accelerator (TTRA) initiative.
Insulin Resistance Insights Revealed
22 September 2021 | The Australian Journal of Pharmacy (AJP)
Healthcare professionals can foster timely insulin initiation by supporting patients with realistic, accurate perceptions of diabetes and its treatment from day one.
21 September 2021 | Flagstaff Hill Medical Centre
This year, National Diabetes Week runs from 11 – 17 July and continues the “Heads Up” campaign, focusing on the mental and emotional health of people living with diabetes. For 2021, the spotlight is on diabetes stigma and mental health.
Understanding how hypoglycaemia impacts quality of life in people with type 1 diabetes
20 September 2021 | International Hypoglycaemia Study Group (IHSG)
Hypoglycaemia can have long-term physical and mental consequences on people with diabetes. A recent systematic review by Chatwin et al. assessed the association between hypoglycaemia and quality of life in people with type 1 diabetes.
Sexual Dysfunctions Closely Linked to Diabetes Stress in Diabetes, Study Finds
18 September 2021 | Medical Dialogues
Sexual dysfunctions are frequent in both men and women with diabetes, according to a recent study by Dr Jolijn Ban Cauwenberghe and colleagues.
Patients with Diabetes More Likely to Experience Sexual Dysfunction
8 September 2021 | Endocrinology Network
New data describes risk factors associated with increased prevalence of sexual dysfunction among patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
The ‘P word’ in type 1 diabetes
7 September 2021 | Diabetogenic
Seventeen years ago, I had a decision to make. Would I enrol our soon-to-be-born baby in research that would tell us if she had any of the antibodies for type 1 diabetes?
Sexual Dysfunction Prevalent in Patients with Diabetes
2 September 2021 | HCP Live
Although there are both evidence-based medical and psychological treatments available, health care professionals may not actively discuss sexual dysfunction in patients with diabetes, leading to underdiagnosis and undertreatment.
Your stories of overcoming diabetes stigma
28 July 2021 | Diabetes NSW & ACT
Thank you to everyone who shared their personal experience of living with diabetes and the stigma that sometimes comes with it. This National Diabetes Week we’ve been looking at stigma and the impact it can have on people living with diabetes. As highlighted in recent research and in your stories stigma comes from feeling judged, blamed or even made to feel guilty about your diabetes.
Your stories of overcoming diabetes stigma
16 July 2021 | Diabetes Queensland
Thank you to everyone who shared their personal experience of living with diabetes and the stigma that sometimes comes with it. This National Diabetes Week we’ve been looking at stigma and the impact it can have on people living with diabetes. As highlighted in recent research and in your stories stigma comes from feeling judged, blamed or even made to feel guilty about your diabetes.
15 July 2021 | NutriKane
More than 1.6 million Australians feel blamed and shamed for living with a condition they didn't choose. According to a new Diabetes Australia report released for National Diabetes Week 2021, diabetes is one of the most misunderstood and stigmatised health conditions in the country, with up to 80 per cent of people with diabetes experiencing stigma.
Heads Up campaign to challenge diabetes blame and shame
13 July 2021 | The Limbic
Diabetes Australia has launched a major media campaign to highlight the widespread community misunderstanding and stigma about diabetes. The Heads Up campaign, which will be featured across digital channels, television and social media, aims to tackle the stigmatisation is driving high rates of mental health problems for people living with diabetes.
National Diabetes Week: Ending the blame and shame
13 July 2021 | Australian Nursing & Midwifery Journal (ANMJ)
Up to 80% of people with diabetes report feeling blamed and shamed for living with the condition, new data released during National Diabetes Week 2021 (11-17 July) has revealed.
It’s time to reduce diabetes stigma this National Diabetes Week
12 July 2021 | Institute for Health Transformation
Widespread community misunderstanding and stigma about diabetes is driving high rates of mental health problems for people living with diabetes, experts have warned at the start of this year’s National Diabetes Week (11 -17 July).
National Diabetes Week 11th-17th July
12 July 2021 | Diabetes Qualified
This year, National Diabetes Week is focusing on challenging diabetes related stigma. Research conducted by the Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes (ACBRD), found that four out of five people living with diabetes have experienced stigma at some point. Stigma affects all aspects of life for people with diabetes, including their mental health and wellbeing.
Queenslanders feel the impact of diabetes stigma
11 July 2021 | Diabetes Queensland
More than 216,000 Queenslanders have been impacted by diabetes stigma at some time because they’ve felt judged or shamed about their diabetes, the latest research indicates. This National Diabetes Week (July 11 to 17), Diabetes Queensland CEO Sturt Eastwood is asking people to be aware of the pressure diabetes places on the nearly 270,000 people living with the condition in Queensland.
The Diabetes Stigma What you can do
3 July 2021 | Diet Yumm
Stigma by definition is the disapproval of, or discrimination against, a person based on perceivable social characteristics that differ them from other members of a society. Unfortunately, research suggests people with diabetes experience this stigma.
11 June 2021 | Diabetes NSW & ACT
This year, National Diabetes Week will run from 11 – 17 July and in year two of the ‘Heads Up on Diabetes’ campaign we’ll be focusing on challenging diabetes related stigma. There are many reasons someone might feel stigma.
9 June 2021 | Diabetes Queensland
This year, National Diabetes Week will run from 11 – 17 July and in year two of the ‘Heads Up on Diabetes’ campaign we’ll be focusing on challenging diabetes related stigma. There are many reasons someone might feel stigma.
Diabetes Australia awards major research grants on 100-year anniversary of insulin discovery
29 April 2021 | Diabetes Australia
Research into new treatments for diabetes and new ways to prevent the serious complications of diabetes are being supported in 19 diabetes research projects funded by the Diabetes Australia Research Program in Victoria.
Symptoms of Depression, Anxiety and Their Impact on Type 1 Diabetes
26 April 2021 | Type 1 Better
Living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a constant battle, one that can lead to burnout, anxiety, or even symptoms of depression. The daily challenges that come with following an insulin treatment, measuring blood sugar, adapting activities based on blood sugar levels, and managing of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, along with the risks of complications and even social stigma, can impact the quality of life and well-being of people with T1D.
6 April 2021 | Danish Diabetes Academy
A December workshop in 2019 attended by leading American and a British diabetes psychology researchers have resulted in a Danish-language chapter on diabetes distress.
Words Matter: The Debate Over ‘Diabetic’ vs. ‘Person with Diabetes’
9 March 2021 | Healthline
Words are such intriguing little creatures. One word can hold all kinds of meaning and connotation for one person and not another. I’ve always been fascinated by the interpretative nature of language.
Depression leads to poor self-care and worse glycaemia in people with T1D
3 March 2021 | The Limbic
People with type 1 diabetes who have co-morbid depression – but not anxiety – are more likely to have poor self-care behaviour and subsequent poor glycaemic outcomes, an Australian study has shown. In a four year follow up of 205 adults with T1DM enrolled in the Diabetes MILES–Australia, those with depressive symptoms at baseline were ...
Expert Perspectives: How does stigma affect people with type 2 diabetes?
23 February 2021 | Medical News Today
Diabetes is a very common chronic disease. Stigma still exists and can negatively impact a person’s self-care behaviors. This may make it less likely they get the help they need to manage the condition. Diabetes affects about 29 million people in the United States. However, people living with diabetes may sometimes experience diabetes stigma.
2020
18 December 2020 | Diabetogenic
It seems that my life has been all about hypoglycaemia lately. Not because I have been scrambling about with low glucose levels, but because it has been taking up a considerable number of my work hours and focus. Diabetes Australia has been running The Lowdown 2020, and I’ve been hosting a podcast (to be released in 2021) for HypoRESOLVE.
Fighting Stigma Through Language in Diabetes
25 November 2020 | Dr Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre
The word stigma stands for “a mark of shame or discredit” in the dictionary. And nowhere is the perception of stigma more prevalent than in the world of health and disease. A prime example is the Covid-19 pandemic. Fear, anxiety, confusion and lack of knowledge are provoking social stigma all over the world, putting healthcare workers and patients at risk: isolation, ostracisation to violence.
Could Your Stress Actually Be Diabetes Distress?
23 November 2020 | diaTribe
Have you ever felt frustrated, angry, or stressed while managing your diabetes? You’re not alone – many people have a hard time coping with the emotional demands of diabetes management. In fact, the term “diabetes distress” is used to describe the experience of negative emotions that come from the challenges of living with diabetes.
14 November 2020 | Diabetopole
Have you ever cringed when hearing someone ask you if “you could eat this dessert” or if “your diabetes was well controlled”? The language used by healthcare professionals and relatives is often very far from our reality as a person with diabetes. The terms used are generally dramatic and negative. These words play a major role in the way we live and perceive our diabetes. They are also the link between us and our caregivers during consultations. What if at the end of the day, language was as important as insulin in taking care of us?
Uso del Lenguaje en Diabetes (Use of Language in Diabetes)
4 November 2020 | Dulcesito Para Mi
We often find ourselves in environments where the use of language is not fully guarded. The right of every individual to be identified as he or she prefers is undeniable. Labeling yourself, naming yourself, and naming yourself is a decision of your own that cannot be rejected. You decide how you want to see yourself in front of others and, although much of the image that we represent will depend to a large extent on our actions and behaviors, specifying the way in which we prefer to be named is very sensible.
New Language Matters website offers guidance for diabetes healthcare teams
19 October 2020 | JDRF UK
The Language Matters movement has encouraged healthcare professionals around the world to consider the language they use when talking to people with diabetes. Now the guidance has been brought together in one place – making it easier than ever for clinicians to access and learn from it, says our Research Communications Manager, Conor McKeever.
Staying strong: your mental health matters
19 October 2020 | Diabetes Victoria
2020 has been a year full of challenges, with COVID-19 the most significant. Victorians have had it tough with stricter and longer lockdown periods than the rest of the country. During this period, some of us have lost jobs, struggled to juggle work-life and home-life as well as helping our kids through online learning - all placing a strain on our mental health.
Our Covid-19 response: Improving health and wellbeing
1 October 2020 | Deakin University
Celebrating 10 Years of the ACBRD
24 August 2020 | Bittersweet Diagnosis
Recently the Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes (ACBRD) celebrated their 10th anniversary. I was honoured to be invited to share what this significant milestone meant for me as a person living with diabetes at their webinar event. The more I reflected on this, the more I realised the enormous ripple effect that research on the psychosocial, emotional and mental wellbeing of diabetes has on the diabetes community.
ACBRD celebrates 10 year milestone
20 August 2020 | The Limbic
The Australian centre that has put the psycho-social and behavioural aspects of diabetes in the spotlight is celebrating its 10th anniversary. Since 2010, the Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes (ACBRD) in Melbourne has been focusing on what it is like for people to live with diabetes – and how to improve both health and quality of life.
Diabetes Australia CEO Professor Greg Johnson celebrates the 10th birthday of the ACBRD
20 August 2020 | Diabetes Australia
A special message from Diabetes Australia CEO Professor Greg Johnson to the team at The Australian Centre of Behavioural Research in Diabetes, who are celebrating the Centre's 10th anniversary this week!
19 August 2020 | Diabetes Victoria
This month we’re shinning a light on our youth. More specifically, young people living with type 1 and type 2 diabetes transitioning into adulthood. This transition is a particularly important time as young people begin to gain more independence in their diabetes management.
People with diabetes hit hard by pandemic
14 July 2020 | Hospital + Healthcare
This year, National Diabetes Week (12–18 July) will focus on supporting the emotional and mental health of people living with diabetes, and will draw attention to gaps in diabetes services and care.
Australians with diabetes take a double hit from COVID-19
13 July 2020 | Diabetes Queensland
People with diabetes have been hit extra hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only has the pandemic impacted their physical health – with disrupted access to diabetes services and the higher risk of serious COVID-19 related illness – but for more than 40% of people with diabetes, COVID-19 has had a negative impact on their mental or emotional health.
Millions with diabetes take a double hit from COVID-19
13 July 2020 | Diabetes NSW & ACT
People with diabetes have been hit extra hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only has the pandemic impacted their physical health – with disrupted access to diabetes services and the higher risk of serious COVID-19 related illness – but for more than 40% of people with diabetes, COVID-19 has had a negative impact on their mental or emotional health.
“Keep SAFE”: a behavioural vaccine for COVID-19
8 June 2020 | InSight
Australia's Chief Medical Officer Brendan Murphy has said “we don’t know if and when a [medical] vaccine will come”. If it does not come, or if it takes the expected 12–18 months, we will have to utilise flexible methods to minimise and contain outbreaks and prevent a second wave.
Should every diabetes service have a psychologist?
16 April 2020 | Australian Diabetes Educator
As a clinical psychologist who has worked in diabetes for many years, I have observed that there has always been a core of practitioners with strong interests in the psychosocial aspects of the condition, and a strong commitment to disseminating their skills.
Covid-19: Coping with an extraordinary situation
1 April 2020 | Diabetes Victoria
Although the coronavirus has created new, and in some ways unprecedented challenges, the community response is in many instances encouraging. This is reflected in the advice being offered by individuals and organisations, including Diabetes Victoria, on how to manage this crisis.
Ben West - Fixing diabetes, changing the conversation
1 April 2020 | My Artificial Pancreas
It’s hard to write about Ben West without “feeling it deep in the heart” as Weston Nordgren put it so well on Twitter.I’ve been fascinated by Ben ever since I discovered the lengths he went to to liberate diabetes data over a five year period, starting in 2009. Ben’s work, Decocare, formed the central part of the OpenAPS toolkit he developed in collaboration with Dana Lewis and Scott Leibrand.
Diabetes distress, body dissatisfaction may flag disordered eating risk in adolescence
13 March 2020 | Medicine Matters
The presence of diabetes distress and body dissatisfaction may warn of a high risk for disordered eating in adolescents with type 1 diabetes, show data from the Diabetes MILES Youth–Australia study.
No flash results from CGM study in T2D
30 January 2020 | The Limbic
Use of professional-mode flash glucose monitoring in adults with type 2 diabetes does not result in improved HbA1c or diabetes-related distress, Australian research has found. However the study conducted across 25 general practices in Victoria found the intervention did improve the time spent in the target glucose range over 12 months.
Language matters (language is important)
28 January 2020 | Diabefem
Language Matters, or what is the same, language is important, in whatever language it is. Not only in English. The language movement in health is not new, not in diabetes either. In 2012 Diabetes Australia made its statement: improve communication with and about people with diabetes.
Sensitive language: Please do not say “diabetic” anymore
6 January 2020 | Deutsches Ärzteblatt (German Medical Journal)
At diabetes congresses and in specialist publications, one constantly encounters "poorly attuned diabetics" who are "lacking in adherence to therapy" and who therefore "have to undergo lifestyle intervention". There is an urgent need to change this language, says blogger, journalist and patient Antje Thiel.
January 2020 | The Lamp: The magazine of the NSW nurses and midwives
Over the past three decades, the prevalence of diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has tripled, with 1.26 million Australians currently living with T2DM. T2DM is a progressive chronic disease, which requires effective management to prevent complications. In Australia, general practice plays a key roles in supporting self-management.
The Importance of Language for Addressing Stigma in Diabetes Care
Summer 2020 | Outlook: The member newsletter of the Society of Behavioral Medicine
More than 34 million people in the U.S. have Type I or Type II Diabetes. Diabetes is a group of diseases characterized by high blood glucose levels resulting from the body's inability to produce and/or use insulin.
2019
9 things that people with diabetes wish their doctor would understand
12 December 2019 | The Limbic
People with diabetes are generally satisfied with the care they get from their doctors but many believe they lack understanding of what the disease really means for the patient in everyday life.
‘Upskilling’ healthcare providers could address concerns of people with diabetes
12 December 2019 | medwireNews
A large survey has uncovered a number of issues that particularly frustrate people with diabetes during their interactions with their healthcare providers. These include providers having a poor understanding of how it is to live with diabetes, giving generic advice, and not fully appreciating the person’s own expertise in their diabetes.
A recap of solution-focused sessions from IDF Congress 2019
11 December 2019 | A Fresh POV for You!
I just recently returned from the International Diabetes Federation Congress, in Busan, Korea. A few of our readers made it to this conference, along with many more friends from the diabetes community who presented interesting sessions that we @AFreshPOVforYou thought you might appreciate.
On World Diabetes Day, check whether you’re at risk
14 November 2019 | Your Life Choices
On World Diabetes Day, the focus is on encouraging the millions of people around the world with type 2 diabetes to take note of the warning signs, see their health professional and heed his or her advice.
Type 1 diabetes severe hypoglycemia predictors identified in HypoCOMPaSS analysis
10 September 2019 | Medicine Matters
Researchers have identified factors that predict repeated very low blood sugar among adults with type 1 diabetes who have suboptimal awareness of hypoglycemia.
Complacent beliefs drive problematic hypo
21 August 2019 | The Limbic
People with recurrent severe hypoglycaemia or impaired awareness of hypoglycaemia have a set of beliefs that normalise or minimise any concerns about their low blood glucose levels and prioritise avoidance of hyperglycaemia.
On-Site reporting from ADA 2019, San Francisco
5 July 2019 | Ascensia Diabetes Care
Day Three: The Emotional Toll Of Diabetes Complications - What Have We Done For Them Lately? This was the title of an ADA session led by a panel of people with diabetes, including familiar faces from the Diabetes Online Community - it was fantastic! Empathy, compassion, and language ALL matter in life and life with diabetes.
Celebrating the enduring impact of a Vision 2020 Australia-funded program of PhD Research
4 July 2019 | Vision Initiative
Dr Amelia Lake discusses the Diabetes and Eye Health project, funded by Vision 2020 Australia.
26 June 2019 | A Fresh POV for You!
We are quickly back to work, with the first stop post vacation at The American Diabetes Association Scientific Sessions in San Francisco. A Fresh POV for You attended some inspiring sessions, particularly those focused around behavioral health. We thought we’d share highlights from several that were particularly impactful.
ADA Scientific Sessions (#ADA2019): Loads of Learning, Connecting and Recommitting
17 June 2019 | American Association of Diabetes Educators
Once again I attended the American Diabetes Association’s Scientific Sessions (ADA Sci Sessions), held this year in the City by the Bay, San Francisco, June 7 – 11... The meeting experience for diabetes educators continues, year by year, to improve with more content on topics of interest to us – education innovation, behavior change, psychosocial impact of diabetes and interventions, nutrition, physical activity and more.
The Psychosocial Burden of T1D in the Teenage Years
23 May 2019 | JDRF
Adolescence comes with its own set of new challenges for any parent, but what is it like if your teenager also has type 1 diabetes (T1D)? Dr Adriana Ventura spoke at JDRF’s Type One Summit on the psychological impacts of T1D during the teenage years.
Interweb Jumble #34 – the IWD edit
8 March 2019 | Diabetogenic
It’s International Women’s Day and while I like to celebrate the incredible women in my life every day, I’m not above using the occasion to showcase some of the womenfolk in diabetes who have such an impact on our community.
Survey lifts lid on Diabetes stigma
7 May 2019 | Diabetes New Zealand
The diabetes stigma survey, the first of its kind in New Zealand, was carried out by Diabetes New Zealand last year. The results show that most people with diabetes encounter negative attitudes and prejudice that add to the stress of living with their condition.
Fear of hypoglycaemia: an unmet clinical challenge
5 March 2019 | Research Review Educational Series
This educational review examines fear of hypoglycaemia in adults with diabetes with a focus on supporting people with type 2 diabetes. It considers the impact on quality of life, and on self-management and clinical outcomes.
13 February 2019 | Sugar Research Advisory Service
Diabetes New Zealand have announced the results of a survey investigating perceptions and stigma around diabetes. The results show that most Kiwis with diabetes encounter negative attitudes that add to the stress of their condition.
2018
National program to minimise diabetes-related blindness
18 December 2018 | Deakin Invenio
A new health initiative has the potential to lower the risk of vision loss for 1.1 million Australians living with type 2 diabetes. A Deakin University researcher’s initiative is set to substantially reduce the risk of blindness for people with diabetes across Australia.
Survey lifts the lid on diabetes stigma in New Zealand
14 November 2018 | Pharmacy Today
“You shouldn’t be eating that.” “I don’t tell people I have diabetes.” “You’re not invited.” “You brought it on yourself.” These are just some of the kinds of comments highlighting that stigma for those living with diabetes is alive and well in New Zealand. A quarter of a million New Zealanders have been diagnosed with diabetes.
Survey reveals shaming and stigma faced by Kiwis with diabetes
1 November 2018 | HealthCentral.NZ
Health professionals have to be careful with their language and approach as they can contribute to the shame and guilt revealed by the first Kiwi diabetes stigma survey. Shaming and stereotyping mean that nearly 40 per cent of Kiwis avoid telling people they have diabetes, the first diabetes stigma survey carried out in New Zealand has found.
Survey lifts the lid on diabetes stigma in New Zealand
1 November 2018 | Diabetes New Zealand
“You shouldn’t be eating that.” “I don’t tell people I have diabetes.” “You’re not invited.” “You brought it on yourself.” These are just some of the kinds of comments highlighting that stigma for those living with diabetes is alive and well in New Zealand. A quarter of a million New Zealanders have been diagnosed with diabetes.
Public Perceptions of Diabetes: Type 2 Stereotypes
31 October 2018 | Diabetes Daily
In a recent article in Diabetes Daily, Sysy Morales noted that many folks who are dating are reticent about telling their date about diabetes. She explained how single people with diabetes could best present their condition to another. This got me thinking about how others have responded to my diabetes.
13 September 2018 | Diabetogenic
The first day of ADC was a hectic one for me. After the busy and generally well-received DIYAPS session, I had a break for lunch and then headed back to the same room as earlier in the day to co-chair a session on co-design.
Need to rebalance on severe hypoglycaemia: expert
7 September 2018 | The Limbic
People with type 1 diabetes continue to have unacceptably high rates of severe hypoglycaemia because there is too much emphasis on good glycaemic control and preventing long term complications over other important outcomes for patients, an Australian researcher says.
24 August 2018 | Type 1 Writes
Day 3 at the Australasian Diabetes Congress kicked off today with breakfast at the Adelaide Central Markets. I was absolutely flattered that Renza sacrificed participating in the 6.45am Novo Nordisk Fun Run to join myself, Ashley and Bionic Wookiee David for the best brekky in Adelaide!
23 August 2018 | Type 1 Writes
Day 2 of the Australasian Diabetes Congress kicked off with a Plenary session covering communication in diabetes care. Even though she was only the understudy stepping in, I couldn’t think of a better person to cover this issue than Jane Speight of the Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes (ACBRD).
Diabetes apps: regulation concerns grow
30 July 2018 | MJA Insight
Patients with diabetes should be warned about the potential for insulin dosing errors with glycaemic control smartphone apps, experts warn, as regulators struggle to oversee the rapidly growing sector. There are over 1500 diabetes apps available online – a number growing faster than any other health care sector, according to Dr Rahul Barmanray and Dr Esther Briganti, Melbourne endocrinologists writing in this week’s MJA.
Re-thinking the impact of diabetes
28 June 2018 | Deakin Invenio
A Deakin academic, whose Chair is funded by Diabetes Victoria, is one of 23 international experts working on a major new European Union project to reduce the burden and consequences of one of the condition’s most common and serious complications – hypoglycaemia.
Diabetes stress negatively impacts HbA1c
9 February 2018 | The Limbic
Diabetes-related distress in adolescents is strongly related to HbA1c and also mediates an association between depressive symptoms and glycaemic control. According to the latest findings from the Diabetes MILES Youth Study, more than a third (36%) of 13-19 year olds reported high levels of distress related to their diabetes.
Elevated diabetes distress linked to higher HbA1c in adolescent diabetes
2 Feb 2018 | Healio
Adolescents with type 1 diabetes who report a high level of diabetes distress are more likely to have higher HbA1c vs. patients reporting lower levels of distress, independent of depressive symptoms, according to findings published in Pediatric Diabetes.
2017
Body image and eating problems linked to teenagers with type 1 diabetes
8 September 2017 | Diabetes.co.uk
A large proportion of teenagers with type 1 diabetes, especially girls, contend with disordered eating behaviours (DEB) and are not happy with their bodies, according to Australian researchers.
Many teens with type 1 diabetes report disordered eating
7 September 2017 | Medical Xpress
High rates of body dissatisfaction and disordered eating behaviors (DEB) are reported by adolescents with type 1 diabetes, particularly females, according to a study published online Aug. 30 in the International Journal of Eating Disorders.
We need to ‘up the ante’ on peer support
30 August 2017 | The Limbic
Peer support is a powerful but underused strategy that can help the 1.7 million people living with diabetes in Australia, a conference has heard.
Access to diabetes technology shouldn’t be decided by age: Diabetes Australia
30 August 2017 | The Limbic
Diabetes Australia has renewed its call to expand subsidised access to diabetes technologies to include adults at high risk of hypoglycaemia. Earlier this year the Federal government made good on a promise of a $54 million funding package over four years to subsidise continuous glucose monitoring for children and young adults under 21 years.
Starting a conversation: diabetes distress
14 July 2017 | Australian Journal of Pharmacy
As an accessible, and often more relaxed, healthcare environment, pharmacy can play a vital role in identifying and addressing diabetes distress, writes Leanne Philpott.
Islet cell transplants can be life changing
23 June 2017 | Limbic
People with type 1 diabetes live with lifestyle restrictions, blood glucose checks, insulin and other therapies, and always the possibility of hypoglycaemia. So how does life change for the relatively few people who’ve had the opportunity to receive an islet cell transplant?
Islet transplantation: positive step for people with type 1 diabetes
19 June 2017 | Deakin Invenio
Professor Jane Speight has spoken on the benefits and issues of islet cell transplantation at the world's leading diabetes conference.
Adolescents with good type 1 diabetes control have better long-term health outcomes
2 May 2017 | Diabetes.co.uk
Adolescents with type 1 diabetes are more likely to have better long-term health outcomes if they maintain good HbA1c levels and regularly check their blood glucose. The study found these diabetes-related strengths provided resiliency during adolescence, a period of vulnerability for people with type 1 diabetes, and promoted positive diabetes outcomes.
Understanding the impact of diabetes stigma
27 April 2017 | Limbic
Can you describe the aim of your research in 10 words? To understand the nature, extent and impact of diabetes stigma. What do you know/have discovered about this topic so far? Not all people with diabetes experience stigmatisation as a result of their condition, but many do.
One in four people with diabetes do not want to use insulin
17 April 2017 | Diabetes AC
The research, conducted at the Australian Centre for Diabetes Behavioural Research, showed that psychological resistance to insulin treatment existed despite the recommendations of the patients’ doctors, with this group of reports more concerns or. Fears arose about of insulin therapy.
Why so many type 2 patients shun insulin
1 April 2017 | Australian Doctor Group
One in four people with type 2 diabetes are not willing to use insulin, according to research released by Diabetes Australia.
Psychological barriers to insulin therapy may delay timely treatments
30 March 2017 | Health Times
For many Australians with diabetes being told they need to start injecting insulin is scary. But delaying its use is risky to long-term health, experts warn.
Quarter of people with diabetes don’t want insulin
30 March 2017 | The Australian Journal of Pharmacy
New research shows that one in four Australians with type 2 diabetes are not willing to use insulin. And a new resource for health professionals has been released as a result.
Type 2 diabetes better managed in primary care
21 March 2017 | The Limbic
A new model of healthcare that gives practice nurses a stronger role in managing people with type 2 diabetes is associated with a higher uptake of insulin treatment and improved HbA1c.
Insulin initiation in primary care improves HbA1c levels
20 March 2017 | The Clinical Advisor
The “Stepping Up” model of care for type 2 diabetes patients was associated with increased insulin initiation rates in primary care, and improvements in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) without worsening emotional wellbeing, according to a study published in BMJ.
Practice nurse model improves primary care diabetes
20 March 2017 | Medscape
A novel primary-care practice model in which nurses take the lead in helping type 2 diabetes patients start on insulin treatment can improve glycemic control, new research suggests.
15 March 2017 | Health+Medicine
The huge personal cost of diabetes can take decades to build up as complications arise which limit the quality and length of lives.
Nurses central to getting diabetes care off to a better start
9 March 2017 | Science Daily
A study at 74 primary health clinics across Australia led by Professor John Furler, has found a new model of healthcare has made a dramatic difference to patient uptake of insulin treatment.
‘Stepping Up’ model of care improves uptake of type 2 diabetes treatment
8 March 2017 | Medical Xpress
A new model of healthcare that focuses on a stronger role for nurses in primary care has been associated with a higher uptake of insulin treatment among patients with type 2 diabetes, reports a study published in The BMJ today.
Why nurses are best for type 2 patients
9 March 2017 | Australian Doctor Group
Practice nurses should have a stronger role in primary care when it comes to treating type 2 diabetes, Australian research suggests.
Diabetes impacts psychological health: MILES-2
30 January 2017 | The Limbic
A new report has highlighted the psychosocial impact of living with diabetes – with over a third of adults with insulin-treated type 2 diabetes and a quarter with type 1 diabetes reporting moderate to severe depressive symptoms.
2016
Hypos slipping under GPs’ radar
1 December 2016 | The Australian Doctor
Patients with type 1 diabetes are having frequent, and sometimes severe, hypoglycaemic events but not telling their doctor, Australian researchers say.
Diabetes: Stigma, blame and shame
22 November 2016 | Drugwatch
To the majority without the disease, people with diabetes are presented as overweight, lazy and guilty of bringing the disease upon themselves — often illustrated by faceless overweight people in reports on network news.
DME explained in layman’s terms
14 November 2016 | Optometry Australia
Based on the experience of a real patient, Diabetic Macular Oedema Xplained is launching today, on World Diabetes Day. Through an animated storytelling app, it explains what DME is, the risk factors, treatment options, side-effects and possible psychological issues.
Greater awareness needed about diabetic eating disorders.
28 October 2016 | ABC radio ‘The World Today’
Australian health professionals are calling for more awareness about how some type 1 diabetics are restricting their use of insulin to lose weight. The condition is known as 'diabulimia' and the emotional and physical effects can be devastating and, in some cases, deadly.
Drivers with type 1 might need a reminder about self-monitoring
12 October 2016 | The Medical Observer
GPs might need to remind people with type 1 diabetes to regularly check their blood glucose (BG) before driving, researchers say.
Interview: Dr Jessica Browne talks about stigma and diabetes
7 October 2016 | One Drop
Dr. Jessica Browne is a Senior Research Fellow at The Australian Centre for Behavioral Research in Diabetes, and an international expert on the blame, shame, and social stigma affecting people with diabetes.
3 out of 4 people with diabetes don’t check their blood glucose before driving
1 October 2016 | The Limbic
Three-quarters of Australian drivers with type 1 diabetes, including many with impaired hypoglycemic awareness, don’t consistently check their blood glucose levels before driving, according to a recent survey.
Diabetes management apps unpopular among Aussie teens
1 October 2016 | The Limbic
Despite the high ownership of smartphones by Australian teens, and the large number of health-related and diabetes-specific apps currently available, only one in five youth with type 1 are using apps to help with managing their diabetes, according to a new Australian study.
Handbook launched to shine a light on diabetes and emotional health
15 September 2016 | Australian Ageing Agenda
The handbook, developed by Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes (ACBRD) and Diabetes Australia, aims to give health professionals the strategies and tools to better recognise and work with people with diabetes to reduce the significant psychological burden of the condition.
25 August 2016 | Diabetes Australia
A new handbook discussed today at Australia’s foremost diabetes conference will give health professionals the strategies and tools to better recognise and work with people with diabetes to reduce the significant psychological burden of diabetes.
Australia needs a paradigm shift in diabetes care and research
24 August 2016 | Deakin Invenio
Diabetes expert, Professor Jane Speight argues that a new focus and much more research investment are needed to improve diabetes care. In the latest edition of the “Medical Journal of Australia,” one of Australia’s leading experts on diabetes, Professor Jane Speight, has claimed that the health profession needs to rethink its approach to diabetes.
Diabetes: lip service” to behavioural approaches
15 August 2016 | MJA Insight
Behavioural approaches to diabetes management have taken a back seat to medicines and technologies, says a leading behavioural researcher who has called for a “paradigm shift” in our approach to clinical practice, policy and research.
Concerns about diabetes test strip access
11 July 2016 – MJA Insight
The decision by the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) to remove access to subsidised test strips may trigger anxiety and worry, so experts are urging people with type 2 diabetes to consult a health professional about their management plan.
People with diabetes are not “suffering,” and there is no “bad” kind
27 June 2016 | diaTribe
Our team was fortunate to attend Team Novo Nordisk’s (TNN) Diabetes Online Community Meet-up at the recent ADA conference in New Orleans to hear members of the all-diabetes professional team and friends discuss “Diabetes Language, Myths & Stigma.”
Blood glucose monitoring ‘intrusive’ finds survey
21 April 2016 | The Limbic
As many as 8 out of 10 adults living with diabetes are tired of having to check their blood glucose levels, a survey reveals. The figure is perhaps not surprising given that people living with type 1 diabetes typically need to monitor their blood glucose levels up to six times a day.
7 reasons why diabetes patients have glucose monitoring burnout
13 April 2016 | Australian Doctor
Diabetes patients are fed up of having to constantly monitor their blood glucose levels, according to a Diabetes Australia survey that shows many are not doing as their doctor recommends.
Insulin should not be used as a threat: experts
20 January 2016 | The Limbic
Clinicians should avoid using the threat of insulin therapy to inspire better diabetes management, as this could be contributing to psychological insulin resistance, new research suggests.
Half of type 2 diabetes patients reluctant to start insulin
20 January 2016 | Diabetes Educators Update
Counselling type 2 diabetes patients early on about the likelihood of requiring insulin later down the track is important for preventing psychological insulin resistance, say Australian researchers.
Half of type 2 diabetes patients reluctant to start insulin
14 January 2016 | Australian Doctor
Counselling type 2 diabetes patients early on about the likelihood of requiring insulin later down the track is important for preventing psychological insulin resistance, say Australian researchers.
2015
Forgetting insulin a factor in adolescent DKA
20 November 2015 | The Limbic
Forgetting to take insulin could be a major contributing factor to a higher than expected rate of diabetic ketoacidosis in adolescents, preliminary findings from a subgroup of adolescents participating in the MILES Youth study suggest.
Taking Control of Diabetic Eye Disease
27 October 2015 | MiVision
Diabetes is now considered a global ‘pandemic’ by leading epidemiologists. Multiple associated complications – including diabetic eye disease – severely impact quality of life in our working age population and cost the economy billions of dollars, making this a disease to be tackled by Government, patient organisations, clinicians, industry and the wider community.
Young people with diabetes need attention: experts
3 August 2015 | Australian Journal of Pharmacy
Adolescents and young adults are often left out of the equation when it comes to understanding the implications of diabetes on their home, school, work and social life, says a diabetes expert.
Anxiety reported by a quarter of teens with diabetes: survey
16 July 2015 | Limbic
1 in 4 young adults living with type 1 diabetes report having moderate to severe anxiety, a national survey reveals.
Address ‘psychological insulin resistance’ early in type 2 diabetes
16 July 2015 | Limbic
Early discussion about the possible use of insulin may help to overcome later ‘psychological insulin resistance’ in patients with type 2 diabetes, new Australian research suggests.
Diabetes linked to mood disorder in young people
16 July 2015 | Australian Journal of Pharmacy
A new report released today highlights the psychological, wellbeing and quality of life issues facing young Australians with type 1 diabetes and their parents.
16 July 2015 | Diabetes Australia
Coinciding with National Diabetes Week, an important report released today highlights the psychological, wellbeing and quality of life issues facing young Australians with type 1 diabetes and their parents.
Raising Awareness for Diabetes
15 July 2015 | Bittersweet Diagnosis
National Diabetes Week is soon coming to a close. Our next big diabetes event is World Diabetes Day in November. Campaigns running for these events often draw mixed reactions. Some will happily share and contribute, while others will always find something to criticise. You can’t please everyone.
Deakin Uni Professor busts the biggest diabetes myths
13 July 2015 | Australian Journal of Pharmacy
When it comes to misunderstood medical conditions in Australia, type 2 diabetes is hard to beat, so a Deakin University professor is busting some diabetes myths for consumers.
Busting the myths about type 2 diabetes
10 July 2015 | Health Canal
Despite more than one million Australians having type 2 diabetes, and around 280 new cases diagnosed every day, many people struggle to separate fact from myth.
Five year collaboration celebrates better quality of life for people with diabetes
30 April 2015 | Health Canal
“Diabetes is not just a condition defined by numbers and biomedical risk factors; it places a high selfcare and emotional burden on the individual,” ACBRD Foundation Director Professor Jane Speight says. “Through the ACBRD’s work the emotional well-being of people with diabetes is being considered more widely.”
31 March 2015 | Medical Forum: WA’s Premier Independent Monthly Magazine for Health Professionals
Patient responsibility and a supportive team of health professionals are not-s-secret ingredients for good self-managed care - but it's the quality that counts.
How diabetes affects mental health of young adults
12 January 2015 | Anxiety.org
Health and medical research and treatment often happens in isolation– with progress in one area not always informing developments in others. This disjointed approach is a problem, because mood and anxiety disorders frequently co-occur with chronic physical health conditions.
Young adults with diabetes face mental health challenges
6 January 2015 | Anxiety.org
Health and medical research and treatment often happens in isolation– with progress in one area not always informing developments in others. This disjointed approach is a problem, because mood and anxiety disorders frequently co-occur with chronic physical health conditions.
2014
Youth survey investigates psychosocial needs
10 September 2014 | Diabetes Educators Update
Researchers are conducting an online survey to shed light on how diabetes impacts on the wellbeing of young people and their families.
4 September 2014 | Diabetogenic
Are you the parent of a child (aged 10 – 19 years) with diabetes? Then we need YOU! And your child with diabetes too.
Professor puts focus on psychological well-being
2 September 2014 | Diabetes Educators Update
Diabetes educators are being urged to focus as much on the mental health of people with diabetes as they do on blood glucose management.
Mental health in diabetes overlooked: experts
27 August 2014 | Medical Observer
Professor Jane Speight, director of the Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes, said that for many people with diabetes, depressive symptoms can often be explained by the distress they feel in relation to their diabetes or its complications.
Playing the blame game is not effective
4 February 2014 | Medical Observer
“I call it the blame and shame disease,” an Australian patient told researchers conducting the first qualitative investigation into the social stigma experienced by people with type 2 diabetes.
2013
Rural patients not lacking diabetes care
21 May 2013 | Medical Observer
The disease is one of the significant contributors to higher death rates in people who live outside metropolitan areas 1 and they have less access to specialist care than their city counterparts.
2012
Diabetes patients’ emotional distress not monitored routinely
14 November 2012 – Medical Observer
Professor Jane Speight (PhD), director of the Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes, said detection of major distress by healthcare professionals appeared to be problematic unless it was systematic and structured.
Need for new focus in diabetes management
26 June 2012 | Medical Observer
While 99% of diabetes care involves self-care, 49% of Australians with diabetes say they have never been offered structured education in how to manage their disease.
2011
Mind your language in diabetes discussions
1 November 2011 | Medical Observer
Diabetes Australia and AMA Victoria have recently released a position statement recommending that healthcare professionals and the media use a greater level of sensitivity when describing and discussing diabetes.
General Media
2021
10 December 2021 | Portal de Notícias
Men report erection problems, while women have reduced sexual desire.
10 December 2021 | Revista ISTOÉ
Men report erection problems, while women have reduced sexual desire.
10 December 2021 | Guia Viver Bem
Men report erection problems, while women have reduced sexual desire.
10 December 2021 | NovaEste
Men report erection problems, while women have reduced sexual desire.
Health Minister endorses Australian National Diabetes Strategy
5 December 2021 | The Examiner
A report from Diabetes Australia and the Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes found people diagnosed with the disease were being stigmatised for having the condition.
21 October 2021 | UConn Today
People with type 2 diabetes experience stigma because of both their diabetes and their weight, according to a new study published in Clinical Diabetes by researchers at the UConn Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity. Moreover, these stigmatizing experiences contribute to unhealthy eating behaviors, lower physical activity, and poorer health.
Spirit Health Group Launches Structured Diabetes Course ‘EMPOWER T2i’ in Australia
15 September 2021 | NewsMaker
Today, Spirit Health Group announces the launch of EMPOWER T2i in Australia, an education program for people living with Type 2 diabetes who are using insulin as part of their treatment. Following the success of the UK EMPOWER program, achieving an impressive 97% positive feedback score, Spirit, who has become the fastest growing face-to-face provider of structured diabetes education, wanted to extend access to high quality education to Type 2 diabetes patients around the world.
End the blame and shame says Diabetes Australia
20 July 2021 | The Senior
How would you feel if you had a serious health condition that anyone can develop, yet you were blamed, shamed or judged for having it? Well people with diabetes face stigma and community stereotyping every day, and it is driving high rates of mental health problems.
Playing Hockey with Diabetes | National Diabetes Week 2021
16 July 2021 | Labrador Hockey Club
As this week marks National Diabetes Week, some of our members who all have Type 1 Diabetes came together by chance at training and we were able to capture the moment. This impromptu catch up gave players the opportunity to discuss their individual situations and journeys with this chronic condition.
15 July 2021 | Shepparton News
Held each year, National Diabetes Week aims to raise awareness for all types of diabetes and this year's theme is `Think again. Let’s reduce diabetes stigma'. National Diabetes Week 2021 aims to reduce diabetes stigma in the community and promote understanding of the disease. According to the Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes, more than four in five people with diabetes have experienced diabetes stigma.
The Daily: 9:00AM 14th JUL 2021
14 July 2021 | 2SER Radio
Professor Jane Speight chats to 2SER Radio about concerns over 'fear appeal' pandemic advertising (9:42am).
Thousands in ACT impacted by toll of diabetes stigma
12 July 2021 | Canberra Weekly
More than 15,000 people in the ACT have felt judged or shamed because of their diabetes, the latest research indicates. This National Diabetes Week, 11-17 July, Diabetes NSW & ACT CEO Sturt Eastwood is asking people to be aware of the pressure diabetes places on the nearly 19,000 people living with the condition in the ACT. People can experience diabetes stigma at school, among families, workplaces, sporting clubs and throughout the community.
Heads Up – End diabetes blame and shame
12 July 2021 | Mirage News
Widespread community misunderstanding and stigma about diabetes are driving high rates of mental health problems for people living with diabetes experts warned today.
Caution – End the Blame and Shame of Diabetes
12 July 2021 | Title Press
Widespread community misunderstanding and stigma about diabetes are driving high rates of mental health problems for people living with diabetes experts warned today.
12 July 2021 | 10 News First
New campaign to end stigma and judgement.
It’s time to reduce diabetes stigma this National Diabetes Week
9 July 2021 | The Advocate
Diabetes is a serious and complex condition which is often misunderstood. Negative community attitudes and stereotypes affect most people who live with diabetes – having a very real impact on their self-care, physical health, mental health and quality of life.
Jasmine Schipp - Australian Centre for Behavioural Research on Diabetes – A pancreas in your pocket
6 July 2021 | Foundation for the WA Museum
FameLab 2021 Victoria Semi-Finalist.
2020
Social support for people with diabetes
7 December 2020 | La Trobe University
New research from the College of Science, Health and Engineering suggests that social support may optimise self-care behaviours in people with diabetes.
Victoria coronavirus rules on face masks should be clearer, experts say
5 November 2020 | ABC News
Victorians are still getting used to wearing masks every time they leave the house but not everyone's wearing them correctly — and health experts say the messaging needs to be much clearer.
Immunocompromised Victorians 'pleasantly surprised' by compliance with COVID-19 restrictions
7 October 2020 | ABC News
Gerald Wiblin lives with diabetes and he says he is grateful that people in Victoria are remaining vigilant with mask-wearing and physical distancing to control the spread of COVID-19.
22 July 2020 | ABC TV 7pm Bulletin
Melbourne's second COVID-19 lockdown harder than the first, as data shows people slower to respond.
Melbourne’s second COVID-19 lockdown harder than the first, as data shows people slower to respond
22 July 2020 | ABC News
When Melbourne and surrounding areas entered lockdown 2.0, it was a heavy psychological blow for all involved. And statistics suggest it is harder the second time around, with Melburnians struggling to match the level of reduced activity seen in the April and May lockdown
Data shows that Melbourne’s second lockdown harder than the first
22 July 2020 | ABC Radio AM
With Greater Melbourne now in its second lockdown, many in the city noticed things didn't seem quite as quiet as they were during lockdown one. Statistics from the City of Melbourne and mobility data for Google suggest so far activity in Melbourne hasn't reduced as much as it did during the first lockdown.
14 July 2020 | Channel 7 News
1.35 million Australians with diabetes take a double hit from COVID-19
12 July 2020 | The National Tribune
People with diabetes have been hit extra hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only has the pandemic impacted their physical health – with disrupted access to diabetes services and the higher risk of serious COVID-19 related illness – but for more than 40% of people with diabetes, COVID-19 has had a negative impact on their mental or emotional health.
1.35 million Australians with diabetes take a double hit from COVID-19
12 July 2020 | Mirage News
People with diabetes have been hit extra hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only has the pandemic impacted their physical health – with disrupted access to diabetes services and the higher risk of serious COVID-19 related illness – but for more than 40% of people with diabetes, COVID-19 has had a negative impact on their mental or emotional health.
Alumni News | Amelia Lake (YG 1985)
24 May 2020 | Tintern Grammar
Dr Amelia Lake is a behavioural scientist and Research Fellow in the School of Psychology at Deakin University. Amelia has worked in psychological research for almost two decades. Her main research interests are in public health, specifically the application of health psychology to promoting health behaviour change and chronic condition self-management.
Epidemiology: Time to question early research findings
12 May 2020 | The Age
Public thirst for knowledge has encouraged rapid publication of COVID-19 research. As a behavioural scientist, I have watched with increasing concern as "preliminary" findings are published before peer-review.
Tasmanians with diabetes are not alone on this tough journey
10 April 2020 | The Mercury
Managing diabetes in challenging times
2 April 2020 | The Advocate
Living with diabetes is challenging at the best of times, but today and for the coming weeks we will be in the midst of one of the most difficult times of our lives. Through this unprecedented time, Diabetes Tasmania, Diabetes Australia and the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) will continue to support you.
2018
Diabetes NZ Survey lifts lid on diabetes stigma in NZ
1 November 2018 | Voxy
These are just some of the kinds of comments highlighting that stigma for those living with diabetes is alive and well in New Zealand. A quarter of a million New Zealanders have been diagnosed with diabetes.1 Now, a ground-breaking survey uncovers the prejudice and stigma that many experience every day.
Fighting the stigma of diabetes: helping young people speak out about their disease
15 June 2018 | ABC Heywire
Will Egan was diagnosed with diabetes when he was three years old. "I had really supportive parents who took a lot of initiative and were very proactive about my diabetes," Will said. "But for me it was really socially isolating because I thought I was weird and different."
ABC Melbourne radio’s Evenings with Christina Anu
8 June 2018 | ABC
30 May 2018 | SDU
Researchers from SDU’s Department of Psychology are to investigate the psychological burden of hypoglycaemia in people with diabetes and their family members in a large international research project. With a total budget of 26.8 million euro from the EU and industry partners, researchers aim to gain new knowledge to develop better treatments for people living with diabetes.
SDU participates in large-scale European diabetes efforts
25 May 2018 | SDU
Researchers from the Department of Psychology will examine the psychological costs for diabetic patients and their relatives in a patient-centered, international research project on low blood sugar and diabetes. With a total budget of 195 million. kroner from, among others, the EU, researchers will gain new knowledge to develop better treatments for people living with diabetes.
2017
Let’s talk about changing these depression statistics for World Health Day
7 April 2017 | Sydney Morning Herald
It sucks hope and deforms perspective. Depression is not just feeling a bit "down" – at its worst, it's about being devoid of feeling altogether, as Matthew Johnstone says in his video I had a Black Dog, which has had close to 8 million views. Friday April 7 is World Health Day and this year's theme is depression and common mental disorders with a slogan of "Let's Talk".
Strong link between diabetes and depression
7 April 2017 | Philtimes
Every April 7, the World Health Day is celebrated since 1948 when the World Health Organisation was established. This year’s World Health Day focuses on depression. Globally, around 350 million people of all ages and from all walks of life suffer from depression.
Glucose monitors give young diabetes sufferers peace of mind
7 April 2017 | The Australian
Type 2 diabetes has become something of a marker of a society that is getting fatter, less active, more sedentary.
Dr Christel Hendrieckx Link Between Diabetes and Depression Interview
7 April 2017 | Female.com.au
This year's World Health Day (Friday 7 April) focuses on depression. Globally, around 350 million people of all ages and from all walks of life suffer from depression. People with depression are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes and depression is more common and highly recurrent in people with diabetes.
14 November 2017 | Deakin University
A new study by Deakin researchers aims to help health professionals better support people with diabetes distress. One of the most common emotional health problems affecting people with diabetes, diabetes distress involves the concerns, frustrations and fears arising specifically from living with and managing diabetes.
Many diabetics not willing to use insulin
30 March 2017 | SBS
Psychological barriers to insulin therapy may delay timely treatment, new research has revealed. New research released by Diabetes Australia shows that one in four Australians with type 2 diabetes is not willing to use the potentially life-saving medication despite their doctor's recommendation.
Many diabetics not willing to use insulin
30 March 2017 | PerthNow/Australian Associated Press
2016
‘Deadly but preventable type 2 diabetes on the rise in Australia’
3 November 2016 | The Australian
Writing in the Medical Journal of Australia in August, Jane Speight from Deakin University and Diabetes Victoria called for a "paradigm shift"...
28 October 2016 | ABC News
Australian health professionals are calling for greater awareness about the prevalence and danger of Type 1 diabetics restricting their insulin to lose weight, in what is being called "diabulimia". The practice means diabetics can lose large amounts of weight rapidly, but the emotional and physical effects can be devastating and in some cases deadly.
Lung cancer and diabetes: The diseases where no one feels sorry for you
19 April 2016 | News.com.au
When someone is diagnosed with lung cancer, the first thing both doctors and well-intentioned loved ones ask is, “Well, did you smoke?” About 90 per cent of lung cancer in males and 65 per cent in females is estimated to be the result of smoking. Those outside these percentages understandably feel the need to justify their illness
People living with Insulin-dependent diabetes feel burnt out, survey says
15 April 2016 | The Newcastle Herald
A national survey of Australians living with diabetes has found that one in three feel like robots for having to check their blood glucose levels up to six times per day. Most do not check as often as they should, the survey found, prompting calls for less burdensome diabetic management options.
2015
Diabetic children at greater risk of depression and anxiety: study
16 July 2015 | Triple J & ABC Radio
A quarter of Australian teenagers with type 1 diabetes are also struggling with depression and anxiety. A study published today finds that the condition which is treated with injections is placing a significant psychological burden on children.
Anxiety, depression found in quarter of teens with type 1 diabetes, survey says
16 July 2015 | ABC
The first national survey on the psychological wellbeing of young people with type 1 diabetes has found one in four of them reported moderate to severe anxiety or depression. Diabetes Australia surveyed 800 teenagers and found about one in three needed mental health support and about half of their parents were "often worried" about their child's health.
Type 1 diabetes causes anxiety for teens
16 July 2015 | Nine News
13 July 2015 | Geelong Advertiser
People often underestimate the seriousness of type 2 diabetes, a Deakin professor says. To kick off National Diabetes Week, professor of behavioural and social re- search in diabetes, Jane Speight, has addressed some of the common myths around the disorder.
Majority of Aussies underestimate diabetes risk
12 July 2015 | SBS
New research by Diabetes Australia suggests a majority of Australians are underestimating the prevalence of diabetes, and a majority of the population doesn’t associate major health complications with the condition.
Diabetes Victoria: the Dangers of the Disease
5 May 2015 | The Australian Business Executive
Craig took up his appointment as the CEO of Diabetes Victoria in March 2013. Prior to this, he had been the CEO of the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre in Melbourne from May 2004 and the Chief Executive of the Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital in Perth from October 1998 until April 2004.
2014
Facing not only diabetes, but the stigma that can come along with it
21 November 2014 | The Washington Post
At a baby shower for a co-worker, Patti Smith reached for a cookie and was scolded by an officemate. “People watch what you eat,” says Smith, 56, who lives in El Cajon, Calif., and was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes three years ago.
Diabetes Is Already Psychologically Demanding, So Cut the Stigma Too
27 August 2014 | Mashable Australia
When Rachel Kerstetter woke up the morning of Aug. 11, 2011, she knew something was wrong. She had risen multiple times during the night. She was extremely thirsty and her vision was blurry. She needed to go to the bathroom more often than usual.
2012
The challenge of chronic disease management
17 August 2012 | Science in Public
This is background information and comments from GPs and experts at the collaborative Care Cluster Australia launch. Chronic illness is the single greatest challenge facing health care in Australia as the population ages.
ACBRD says greater government support is needed to provide diabetes sufferers with the health services they need
17 May 2012 | 2CME Orange
New research released by Diabetes Australia has raised concerns diabetes sufferers are more likely to have depression and anxiety
15 May 2012 | HO FM Hobart
A study by Diabetes Australia has raised concerns sufferers are more likely to have depression and anxiety
15 May 2012 | i98 FM Wollongong
A new study shows people who suffer from diabetes experience high levels of stress, anxiety and depression
15 May 2012 | Radio Sport National
A study into Australians with diabetes has found they are suffering from silence
14 May 2012 | 2GB Sydney
2010
Hospital admissions soar for diabetes sufferers
18 August 2010 | The Age
Diabetes is causing a rising number of people to be admitted to hospital with kidney disease. An Australian Institute of Health and Welfare report shows a 70 per cent jump in those admitted to hospital for dialysis since the 2000-01 financial year - an average of 60,000 more hospitalisations every year until 2007-08.