Type 2 Diabetes and Depression: A Pilot Trial of an Integrated Self-management Intervention for Latino Immigrants

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the current study was to determine the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of an integrated self-management intervention that simultaneously targets diabetes and depression self-management in a primary care clinic that serves the Latino immigrant community.

Methods: The integrated intervention included behavioral activation and motivational interviewing techniques. It was developed with patient, family member, and provider stakeholders, and it comprised 6 individual sessions, followed by 2 monthly booster sessions. Eighteen Latino immigrants participated in an open trial of the intervention. A1C levels were examined at baseline and postintervention. Participants also completed measures of depression, diabetes self-management behaviors, patient activation, and diabetes-related self-efficacy and gave open-ended feedback about the intervention.

Results: Feasibility of delivering the intervention in the primary care setting and acceptability to the target population were demonstrated. Among participants completing the intervention, A1C levels decreased significantly from baseline. A significant reduction in depressive symptoms and an improvement in diabetes self-management behaviors, patient activation, and diabetes-related self-efficacy were observed. Qualitative responses from participants indicated unilateral positive responses to the intervention and endorsed its continuation in the clinic.

Conclusions: This pilot trial demonstrated the feasibility and acceptability of an integrated self-management intervention for diabetes and depression. In addition, preliminary data suggest that the intervention may have a positive impact on diabetes and depression-related outcomes. Further evaluation is warranted.