This submission discusses the role of psychologists in assisting people to adjust to diabetes and manage lifestyle behaviours that improve healthy living. At an individual level, the work of psychologists has demonstratable effectiveness in the prevention and management of the risks associated with the development of diabetes.
Given the association of diabetes with mental health, its impact on the health system, productivity, and other key economic and social areas, there is a further need for for additional individual, community and government interventions to address diabetes. These interventions would benefit from being designed around prevention, early detection, early intervention, shifting community attitudes, and have a specific focus on improving access to support, particularly for those at higher risk and within vulnerable communities.
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