7146 The Effects Of Mindful Self-Compassion In Adolescents And Young Adults With Type 1 Diabetes: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract Disclosure: R. Jerawatana: None. B. Weinstein: None. C.N. Phattanasri: None. S. Saetung: None. P. Tachanivate: None. A. Hathaidechadusadee: None. C. Deeampai: None. J. Sakmanarit: None. N. Saibuathong: None. S. Korpaisarn: None. N. Numsriskulrat: None. T. Sahakitrungruang: None. S. Reutrakul: Speaker; Self; Eli Lilly & Company. Background: Diabetes distress is associated with worse glycemic control and self-management in person with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Kindness to oneself may have positive effects on diabetes distress and glycemic control but the data were limited. This study explored the effects of a culturally adapted, brief version of the mindful self-compassion program (MSC), remotely delivered, in adolescents and young adults with T1D in Thailand. Methods: Thirty-four participants, age 18-30 years, who owned a smartphone or tablet, were randomized to receive MSC (n=17) or to a wait-list control group (n=17). Patients with significant co-morbidities and uncontrolled diabetes were excluded. MSC consisted of bi-weekly 2-hour virtual group meetings with the psychologist and study staff for 12 weeks. The content and activities were based on three domains i.e. self-compassion, mindfulness, and self-motivation. Each session emphasized skill practice within small groups of 5-6 participants. After 12-week, the control group was offered the MSC program. Measures of diabetes distress (primary outcome), A1C, diabetes self-efficacy, self-compassion, depressive symptoms, stress, and self-reported sleep quality (secondary outcomes) were collected at baseline, 12- and 24-week. Results: Mean (SD) age was 23.6 (3.6) years, and 22 (64.7%) were female. At 12-week, there was no significant difference in diabetes distress between the two groups, mean difference (MD) 0.38, 95%CI (-4.48, 5.23), p=0.876. However, the intervention group had a significant reduction in A1C compared to control group, MD -0.51%, 95% CI (-0.97, -0.04), p=0.035. Other secondary outcomes did not differ between groups. At 24-week, compared to 12-week, the intervention group maintained A1C reduction (7.33 (1.00) vs 7.49 (0.95)%, MD 0.16 95%CI (-0.04, 0.36), p=0.118 , while the wait-list control group had a reduction in A1C, (8.34 (1.96) vs. 7.76 (1.46)%, MD -0.58%, 95%CI (-0.95, -0.20), p=0.005. Diabetes distress and other secondary outcomes did not differ between 12- and 24-week in both groups. Satisfaction was high (5.8/7). There was no adverse event. Conclusion: This culturally adapted, brief version of the MSC program in adolescents and young adults with T1D did not reduce diabetes distress but resulted in improved glycemic control. It is possible that the improvement in A1C was mediated by other mechanisms than diabetes distress. The results of this study highlight the importance of empowering approaches for improved outcomes in this population. Presentation: 6/1/2024