Type 1 Diabetes and Disordered Eating (T1DE): The ComPASSION Project: Wessex: A Mini Review
Abstract
It is widely recognised that type 1 diabetes can have a profound psychological impact on an individual, and mental health concerns often co-exist alongside the condition. Specific condition self-management requirements such as carbohydrate counting and insulin management can predispose an individual to difficult and often complex cognitions, emotions and behaviours related to food. Thus, the connection between type one diabetes and eating disorders is not surprising, yet this is currently poorly understood, with no clear definition and a limited evidence base for support and management. Though most diabetes professionals recognise the mental health concerns surrounding diabetes, there are very few areas where multidisciplinary teams work cohesively combining diabetes and mental health care. This is particularly relevant with regard to eating disorders, where both teams are likely insufficiently skilled in managing the combination of an eating disorder and type 1 diabetes. Thus, a strong multidisciplinary team approach with shared learning and a holistic ethos is paramount. This short commentary describes the NHS England funded pilot study whereby the diabetes team and eating disorder team in Wessex worked side by side to develop a service specifically for people with this unique, complex and challenging combination.
