What does qualitative evidence tell us about how having a diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus impacts an individual’s identity? A systematic review

Despite literature acknowledging the significance of identity, thorough understanding of how Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) impacts identity, and individuals’ responses to this, is absent. This systematic literature review gathers, organises and evaluates existing qualitative studies investigating or reporting on how diagnosis of T1DM has impacted an individual’s identity, and the ongoing impact that diagnosis of T1DM has on an individual’s identity. Thematic synthesis of evidence from 13 studies produced four overarching themes: Social Identity; Loss of Self; Rejecting T1DM from Identity; and Acceptance into Identity. Findings highlight that T1DM impacts various aspects of an individual’s identity and individuals may respond to this in a range of ways, including struggling to adhere to T1DM management. It is of significant importance that healthcare teams expand the way they think about and work with T1DM, developing appropriate psychological interventions, including conversations about identity and a broader systemic focus on T1DM stigma.