Diabetes information

Psychological problems frequently affect people with diabetes and may interfere with their ability to look after their health in the best way. These problems are often not recognised and not treated and may lead to increased risk of complications of diabetes. They may also affect quality of life and result in increased costs for individuals and for society.

Certain psychological conditions are more prevalent in people with a diagnosis of diabetes.

Depression

Depression is more frequently present in people with diabetes than in the general population and is characterised by low mood and low energy, loss of interest and reduced motivation. Depression may interfere with diabetes self-care.

Anxiety

Uncertainty about the effects of diabetes and the fear of complications may, for some people, lead to anxiety that might interfere with looking after yourself. 

Problems associated with a diagnosis of diabetes

Diabetes typically requires changes to lifestyle and self-care. Some people may feel overwhelmed and may occasionally experience burn-out.

Difficulties with medication

Inconsistent use of medication can have a large effect on management of diabetes and on psychological wellbeing.

Needle phobia

Fear of needles may make it difficult for some people to measure circulating glucose levels.

An integrated service

NHS Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Talking Therapies works in an integrated way with other healthcare providers, working alongside and collaborating with GPs, with hospitals and with diabetes specialist nurses and consultants.

We will help you recognise if you are experiencing depression or anxiety that might affect how you are managing your diabetes.

Therapists have training and experience in working with people with diabetes and other physical health conditions and, together, we will be able to talk about the range of therapy options that would be most helpful and suitable for you.

Who is the service for?

The service is for people aged over 17 years who are normally resident in Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, Huntingdon or Fenland or who are registered with a GP in one of these areas. We do not have an upper age limit.

What else do we offer?

• Interpretation services where required
• Signposting to counselling, partner agencies and other services to support other needs such as return to employment
• Face-to-face, telephone and online options

You will be able to talk about the range of options at your initial assessment and about what would be most suitable for your needs.

How long are the sessions?

Sessions can vary from around 35 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the type of treatment offered. The total number of sessions depends on patients’ needs, but we are a short-term therapy service.

How much does it cost?

As an NHS service, the treatments that we offer are free of charge.

Where will we see you?

Therapists with NHS Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Talking Therapies work in consultation rooms, GP surgeries, hospitals and community settings throughout the county.

What treatment will I receive?

The treatment that you will receive will be determined by your individual needs at the time of treatment. It will not be specified or chosen by external clinicians or agencies.

Waiting time

Please expect there to be a waiting time between your referral and receiving treatment. The waiting time will depend on location, the treatment recommended and current demand for the service. You can ask at your assessment for our best estimate of waiting times.

Is the service for everyone?

We try to be as inclusive as we can, but psychological therapy is not for everyone. Wanting to change is important. Our service may not be right for you if :

• You have a history with mental health teams and a psychiatric diagnosis, such as serious mental illness or personality disorder.
• You have a history of self harm or suicide attempts.
• You have a history of abuse and if this issomething that you particularly want to focus on in therapy.

In the above cases, we would recommend a discussion with your GP who will be able to support your referral and look at the best options for you.

How do I access therapy from the service?

You may wish to discuss your difficulties with your GP or a member of the Cardiac Rehabilitation team who may refer you to the service. You may also refer yourself directly.

How can I refer myself?

We recommend referral in the first instance via our web page here: NHS Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Talking Therapies

Alternatively, call our self-referral team on 0300 300 0055 and they will guide you through the process. Let them know that you have a cardiac diagnosis. The line is open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Emergency contact details

If you feel you are experiencing a mental health crisis and need access to immediate help, please call our First Response Service on 111 and select the option for mental health. Other crisis numbers are available on our website here: https://www.cpft.nhs.uk/helpinacrisis