Self-care and self-management in diabetes: concepts, theories and practices

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a progressive disorder that requires the active participation of individuals with diabetes to improve management and delay the onset of acute and chronic complications. Effective diabetes care necessitates a multifaceted approach involving insulin therapy, non-insulin anti-diabetic drugs and lifestyle adjustments. Self-management and self-care are integral, yet distinct, components of diabetes care. While both play a pivotal role in optimising diabetes care, their distinctions and similarities are often misunderstood. These terms are frequently used interchangeably. Although some activities are unique to each concept, inconsistencies exist in the published literature. Self-management refers to patient behaviours guided by healthcare professionals, whereas self-care encompasses autonomous actions patients take to maintain health and prevent complications. Both concepts involve activities that foster long-term collaboration between patients and healthcare professionals.