EASD releases first guideline on diabetes distress assessment for adults

The European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) has released its inaugural evidence‑based clinical practice guideline on the assessment and management of diabetes distress in adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Published in the journal *Diabetologia*, the guideline represents the first comprehensive, systematic effort by the association to address the psychological burden that accompanies chronic hyperglycaemia, a factor known to affect treatment adherence, glycaemic control and overall quality of life.

Developed by an international panel of endocrinologists, psychologists and diabetes educators, the document synthesises data from multiple studies to recommend validated screening tools, such as the Diabetes Distress Scale, and outlines stepped‑care interventions ranging from brief counselling to structured cognitive‑behavioural programmes. It also provides guidance on integrating distress assessment into routine clinical visits, tailoring support to individual patient needs, and coordinating care across multidisciplinary teams. The EASD expects the guideline to standardise practice, promote early identification of distress, and ultimately improve clinical outcomes for the growing population of adults living with diabetes.