A qualitative exploration of Barbadian patients’ perceptions of managing type 2 diabetes

Abstract

Aims: How persons with diabetes perceive and experience their illness impacts their management and this may influence how they interpret and respond to dealing with the disease. Information on these aspects of chronic illness management within the Caribbean region is limited. Therefore, this study’s goal was to explore the lived experiences of persons diagnosed with and managing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Barbados. Methods: Fourteen face-to-face interviews were conducted with persons diagnosed with T2DM attending public clinics. Interview schedules explored the patients’ experiences living with T2DM and their perceptions of managing their illness. Thematic analysis was conducted to examine the patterns of meaning within the data. Results: Conveyed were individuals’ illness competence or how their views or perceptions of their illness and their ability to manage their diabetes determined their actions. Knowledge and awareness of their illness motivated some towards positive actions, others views and actions however, were obverse. Also identified were individuals’ emotional stance or how having diabetes affected them emotionally, and how as a consequence, these emotions pervaded their expectations and subsequent actions. Sadness, depression, as well as frustration borne from a desire for more social support, especially from family and health-care providers, were some of the emotions described. Conclusion: These findings stress the need for a social and healthcare environment that encompasses the development and implementation of effective programs that make patients feel they are understood and supported.