Living with type 1 diabetes as experienced by young adults

Abstract

Aim Describe young adults` (19–30 years) experiences of living with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). Background Young adulthood is characterized by adaption to adult roles, gradual separation from parental support and leaving the parental home. Living with T1D in young adulthood raises challenges and concerns. Design This study has a qualitative design. Methods Semistructured interviews with 12 young adults living with T1D for 3–14 years, analysed with qualitative content analysis. Results The analysis revealed contradictory ways of handling the illness, as is illuminated in two main categories (a) and five subcategories (b). Handling the situation and dealing with different opinions (a), (b) managing daily life, emotional roller coaster and general attitudes, own views and apprehensions, ignorance and lack of motivation. Most participants were motivated, had knowledge and were in control of their long‐term illness. Planning and structure were an essential part of their daily life. The participants were anxious about losing control of their bodies, the situation, die or be a burden to other people.