Diabetes and Psychological Profile of Younger Rural African American Women with Type 2 Diabetes

Purpose. To describe diabetes self-care behaviors, diabetes-related distress, depressive symptoms, and diabetes-related needs among rural African American women with type 2 diabetes ages 21-50. Methods. A cross-sectional survey, including questionnaires and a single, open-ended question, was used to assess constructs of interest. Findings. Taking medication was the most frequently reported (5.5 days/week) self-care activity and exercise the least (3.0 days/week). Nearly half (44%) reported worrying about diabetes complications. Approximately one-third (31%) felt guilty about inconsistent self-care or fearful about living with diabetes. Seventy percent had a depression score suggestive of significant depressive symptomatology. Most diabetes-related concerns were about diet (34%) (i.e., what to eat), exercise (30%), taking medications (10%), and finances (8%). Conclusions. Future research should explore specific diabetes self-care barriers/enablers and interventions should provide women with diabetes education, barrier management, and psychological support. Innovative delivery strategies are needed to provide this support in resource-limited rural communities.