Why Early Psychological Attention for Type 2 Diabetics Could Contribute to Metabolic Control

Background and aims: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is currently a public health emergency that requires inter- and multidisciplinary medical services. The principal aim of the present work was to review the basic factors related to the possible advantages of providing early psychological attention to T2DM patients as a coadjuvant for achieving adequate metabolic control. Material and methods: A literature review was conducted to explore the interaction between stress and depression and the relation of both to the ability of T2DM patients to effectively manage their disease. Results: It was found that stress is one of the factors linked to the etiology of depression, which is a disorder with high prevalence in diabetic patients. Consequently, an inter- and multidisciplinary approach to treating diabetic patients was developed. One of the main focuses of this approach is early psychological attention, starting shortly after the initial diagnosis. Conclusions: The ability to create consciousness among health care professionals about the importance of early psychological attention for T2DM patients under an inter- and multidisciplinary strategy could possibly improve pharmacological adherence, metabolic control, the quality of life and the life expectancy of patients, as well as save economic resources for patient families and health institutions.