Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

Diabetes-related distress is:

1. Uncommon among individuals with diabetes.

2. Not severe enough to need specialist referral.

3. Less common than depression.

4. Responsive to diabetes self-management education and support.

The correct answer is: Responsive to diabetes self-management education and support.

Diabetes-related distress is a common psychological condition experienced by individuals managing diabetes. It encompasses feelings of anxiety and frustration stemming from the demands of managing the condition. One of the most significant aspects of diabetes-related distress is its responsiveness to diabetes self-management education and support. Engaging in educational programs empowers individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to manage their diabetes effectively, which can significantly alleviate feelings of distress. Supportive interventions, such as counseling or group support, can also provide emotional assistance and help individuals develop coping strategies to face their challenges. This approach acknowledges the psychosocial factors impacting diabetes management and emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive care strategy that includes both medical and emotional support. In contrast, the other options present a misleading perspective. For instance, diabetes-related distress is indeed prevalent among those with diabetes, making it more common than suggested by stating it is uncommon. Moreover, while some may experience distress that does not warrant specialist referral, many people benefit from such referrals, especially when their distress is affecting their self-management capabilities. Finally, stating that diabetes-related distress is less common than depression fails to recognize that these are distinct but often overlapping issues; in fact, both conditions can co-occur in many individuals. Overall, providing effective diabetes self-management education and