Contribution of Psychosocial Support to Alleviating Future Anxiety Among Mothers of Children with Type 1 Diabetes: A Multiple Case Study

Abstract

This qualitative study, employing a multiple-case study design, aims to explore and understand the nature of the contribution of psychosocial support to alleviating future anxiety among mothers of children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM). This chronic condition entails demanding daily care responsibilities, which are often primarily assumed by mothers as the main caregivers, thereby exposing them to persistent psychological stress and concerns about potential future complications. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with three mothers of children with T1DM who differed in the levels of psychosocial support available to them. The findings revealed that future anxiety encompasses significant health-related, social, and academic dimensions. Furthermore, psychosocial support interventions, spousal involvement, peer support, and a supportive school environment were found to play a crucial role as psychological buffers, strengthening mothers’ coping mechanisms and self-efficacy. These forms of support directly contribute to reducing pessimistic concerns about the future and improving the quality of care provided to children with T1DM.