Conjunctive group therapy: A case study of an adult type I diabetes mellitus patient

A 30-year-old woman diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus attended 2-year Conjunctive Group Therapy in parallel with medical treatment at a Greek state hospital. The study focuses on the patient’s changes in terms of attitudes and metabolic control after termination of the intervention. Qualitative data was collected from focused interviews before and after the intervention and thematic analysis was performed; blood samples were collected for the measurement of glucose levels. Findings showed that by termination of the group therapy, the patient improved her adjustment to diabetes, engaged in self-care behaviors, and achieved better stress management; her overall mood, social relationships and quality of life were improved; she redefined the role of diabetes in her life and achieved good metabolic control. Key words: Type 1 diabetes mellitus, group therapy, conjunctive group therapy, psychological adjustment, self-care, stress, quality of life, social environment, diabetes redefinition, metabolic control.