Impact of Type I Diabetes Mellitus and Associated Biopsychosocial Stressors on Mental Health on Indian and Hispanic Children

Abstract

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) affects children worldwide, with the highest concentrations in India and the United States (U.
S.). Estimates project a potential incidence increase of up to 107% by 2040. Caused by an immune disorder destroying pancreatic
cells, T1DM requires strict lifestyle adjustments. This paper focuses on this disease's physical, cultural, and economic challenges
to mental health among Indian and Hispanic youth and their families.
Evidence Acquisition
The authors reviewed recent scholarly literature on type 1 diabetes (T1D) as it relates to mental health among Indian and Hispanic
populations aged 18 years or younger. The authors performed a comprehensive search on the PubMed database. After reviewing
the retrieved studies, the authors examined 18 fully relevant papers, focusing on the studies’ important quantitative and qualitative
findings, methods, results and conclusions.
Results
Financial and emotional burdens of T1D affect Indian and Hispanic families. Many families spend a significant amount of their
income on diabetes care. Depression was prevalent among T1D patients, especially in Latinos/Hispanics, and was associated with
suicidal ideation. Hispanic caregivers, in particular, face cultural challenges and social isolation.
Conclusion
Type 1 diabetes creates multiple challenges for Hispanic/Latino and Indian youth and their families. Economic struggles and
high treatment costs increase the risk of hospitalization and frequent doctor visits. Adolescents risk developing eating disorders
that exacerbate mental health challenges. The burden typically falls on the whole family rather than just the individual diagnosed,
indicating that standard mental health interventions become routine for pre-adult patients and their families.