Lived Experiences of Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus on follow-up at SPHMMC

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction: Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune condition affecting children and adolescents, requiring lifelong management through insulin, monitoring, and lifestyle adjustments. Parental support is crucial for younger children, while adolescents face challenges in self-care, emotional well-being, and social stigma. Beyond medical treatment, considering the psychosocial elements help to improve health outcomes and develop targeted support strategies. Objectives: This study was conducted to explore the lived experience of adolescents with type 1 DM on follow-up at St Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College pediatric diabetic clinic, Addis Ababa, with on December 1, 2025, to December 30, 2025. Methodology: A qualitative phenomenological study was conducted at the SPHMMC diabetic clinic from December 1, 2025, to December 30, 2025, to explore the lived experiences of adolescents with type 1 diabetes, focusing on psychosocial and economic perspectives. A purposive sampling method was employed to select participants. The lead investigator collected data through in-depth interviews, utilizing an audio recorder and an interview guide. Thematic analysis was used for data interpretation, facilitated by Atlas.ti software version 7. Result and conclusion: The psychological experiences were psychological problems due to diabetes (fear, anger, stress, and giving up) and coping strategy (being alone at home, taking candy, family support, health professionals support and stick with religious activity). Identified social experiences influence social participation, disclosure status, social isolation, stigma, social support and influence on education. Further quantitative research should be conducted to describe the factor affecting adolescents with type 1 diabetic mellitus Time frame – September 2025 to January 2026. Expected Budget –29,240 ETB Keywords – Diabetes mellitus, Adolescents, Lived Experience, SPHMMC