Understanding how different mechanism of life coaching offered to young adults with type 1 diabetes can improve their ability to see opportunities and overcome barriers

Objective The purpose of this study was to gain a greater understanding of the potential mechanisms of life coaching in relation to young people with Type 1 diabetes (T1DM); including how it influences their motivation and their ability to see opportunities and overcome barriers. Methods Within the theoretical framework of realistic evaluation theory this qualitative study was conducted at three different hospitals where a total of 10 young adults with T1DM were coached as a supplement to their usual care at the hospital. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and a focus group interview. Results The findings showed that the young adults obtained a better self-awareness, and analyse of the coaching sessions point at several separate coaching mechanisms that seem to improve the young adults’ sense of well-being and personal empowerment in relation to their diabetes. Conclusion Life coaching could be an important supplement to more traditional diabetes follow-up in the specialized health care system. Practice implications The results of this study imply that the capacity to deliver life coaching to young adults with T1DM can have broad implications for supporting them in obtaining better regulated diabetes and living a better daily life.