DIAMONDS QUEST
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Developing and evaluating a diabetes self-management intervention for people with severe mental illness: The DIAMONDS programme (Diabetes and Mental Illness, Improving Outcomes and Self-management): QUEST (Qualitative Exploration of Self-Management in Severe Mental Illness and Long-term Conditions)
IRAS ID
249062
Contact name
Michael Barber
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of York
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
People with severe mental illness (SMI) such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder have poorer physical health and a shorter life expectancy by around 20 years compared to the general population. Higher rates and poorer management of physical long-term conditions (LTCs) such as diabetes and heart disease are partly to blame. There may be several reasons for this, including the individual’s mental illness and treatment, challenges to engaging in healthy behaviours (e.g. exercise, healthy eating), and wider barriers to accessing healthcare and support (e.g. financial, social).
Self-management (which includes taking medications, monitoring symptoms [e.g. blood sugar], preventing complications [e.g. damage to kidneys], and leading a healthier lifestyle) is central to LTC management. There are self-management programmes which can help people with LTCs; however, they tend not to address the additional challenges faced when managing SMI as well. Whilst we know what some of these challenges are, further research is needed to understand more about what prevents, and helps people with SMI to manage a co-existing LTC.
In this qualitative study we will explore this through interviews and spending time with approximately 40 people with SMI and LTCs in their everyday lives. We will also conduct group or individual interviews with approximately 40 people who support those with SMI and LTCs, including relatives, friends and healthcare staff. The information we collect will be analysed to understand more about the support people with SMI and LTCs need to manage their health, and to develop a self-management programme which addresses the specific needs of this population.
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester West Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/NW/0603
Date of REC Opinion
10 Oct 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion