How Does the Psychological Impact of COVID-19 Affect the Management Strategies of Individuals with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes? A Mixed-Method Study.

(1) Background: During and after the pandemic, individuals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes struggled to maintain a healthy lifestyle due to psychological distress and the struggle to accommodate contextual challenges and changes in their family and work obligations and expectations. This study aims to explore the long-term impacts of the pandemic on proactive self-management behaviors and outcomes that consider contextual and environmental factors, such as family and work dynamics. (2) Methods: In this mixed-method study, data were collected from 418 participants using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), followed by 16 individual interviews. (3) Results: The prevalence of depression was 37.1%, that of anxiety was 59.1%, and that of insomnia was 66.3%. Significant differences were observed in anxiety by age (p = 0.02), while individuals with other comorbidities were more likely to report insomnia (p = 0.3). Overall, various challenges during the pandemic have exacerbated emotional distress and complicated self-care routines and adherence to healthy lifestyles. (5) Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted individuals with type 1 and 2 diabetes to adopt alternative health-management methods, such as self-care, proactive initiatives, and daily challenges. Enhancing proactiveness, awareness, and an understanding of individuals' needs is crucial for alleviating stress, controlling disease, and preparing for potential future health crises in the wake of the pandemic's long-term effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]