Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

Which mental health condition can a diabetes educator address without necessarily referring to a mental health professional?

1. Depression

2. Behavioral relapse

3. Eating disorder

4. Anxiety

The correct answer is: Behavioral relapse

A diabetes educator can effectively address behavioral relapse as it often involves the management of lifestyle changes, motivation, and the development of coping strategies that are integral to diabetes self-management. Diabetes educators are trained to help patients reconstruct their plans when lapses occur, providing support that encourages positive behavior changes and the reinforcement of healthy habits. This approach is embedded in the education and coaching role of diabetes educators, who focus on empowering patients and facilitating problem-solving when faced with challenges in their diabetes care. In contrast, conditions like depression, eating disorders, and anxiety often require more specialized interventions and therapeutic approaches that go beyond the scope of diabetes education. These mental health issues can significantly impact a patient’s diabetes management and may necessitate a referral to a mental health professional for comprehensive treatment, including therapy or medications. Thus, while diabetes educators may recognize and support patients experiencing these conditions, they are generally not equipped to provide the level of care required to address them effectively.