Social Services Information for Children and Adolescents with Diabetes Mellitus.

Lee,  Myung Sook

doi:2014.15.3.172

J Korean Diabetes > Volume 15(3); 2014 > Article

Information Desk

The Journal of Korean Diabetes 2014;15(3):172-177.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.4093/jkd.2014.15.3.172 Published online September 30, 2014.

소아청소년 당뇨병 환자를 위한 사회복지정보

이명숙

Social Services Information for Children and Adolescents with Diabetes Mellitus.

Myung Sook Lee

Medical Social Worker, Social Work Team, Keimyung University Dongsan Medical Center, Daegu, Korea. lms0318@dsmc.or.kr

Abstract

Numerous challenges arise when diabetes develops in young children and adolescents. Beginning self-management at the earliest stages of diabetes diagnosis is critical in dealing with the many issues related to diabetes and physical growth, psychological development, and social integration. The primary goal of diabetes self-management for diabetic children and adolescents is to maintain good physical and mental health, both of which require strong family support, social acceptance, and a nurturing environment. Diabetes educators must first encourage public understanding of the psycho-social needs of diabetic children and adolescents, and then individualize treatment using a patient/family-centered approach to diabetes education. The national support system and private social welfare resources can support children and adolescents with diabetes mellitus by providing accessible information and connections between patients and financial sponsors, and by promoting a campaign to change social attitudes toward diabetes mellitus. With supportive programs, the integration of diabetic children and adolescents into society as healthy contributors to family and school is possible.

Key Words: Children and adolescents with diabetes mellitus, Diabetes education, Social welfare resources