Shame and Diabetes Self-Management

The article by Dr. Alan Archer from 2014 examines the impact of shame on diabetes self-management. It reveals that individuals with diabetes often feel shame when they fail to manage their condition effectively, which can lead to negative self-care behaviors. Shame is not recognized as a medical diagnosis, yet it significantly affects mental health and self-management. The article stresses the need for healthcare professionals to be aware of how their communication, both verbal and non-verbal, can trigger shame in patients, potentially hindering diabetes management. It advocates for better understanding and training for healthcare providers to address shame and suggests that some patients may benefit from psychological support or counseling to overcome barriers to effective self-management.