Insulin distress

Abstract

Diabetes distress (DD) is a commonly encountered adjustment disorder among persons living with diabetes. This article discusses insulin distress, a subtype of DD, which has distinct characteristics. Insulin distress can be defined as an emotional response to a suggestion to use insulin; characterized by extreme apprehension, discomfort, dejection, or denial; due to a perceived inability to cope with the requirements of insulin therapy. We describe the etiopathogenesis, clinical features and management of insulin distress. They highlight the clinical challenges that insulin distress poses in some persons. Pragmatic suggestions are shared regarding the addressing of insulin distress before or in parallel with insulin prescription.