PSYCHOLOGICAL FEATURES OF THE EMOTIONAL SPHERE IN PATIENTS WITH DIABETES

Abstract

The article is devoted to the study of psychological characteristics of the emotional sphere in patients with diabetes, specifically focusing on the manifestation of basic emotions and the assessment of anxiety and stress levels, which often arise in response to chronic illness. The study utilized Izard’s Differential Emotions Scale, which assesses the intensity of basic emotions, the PSM-25 Psychological Stress Scale to determine overall stress levels, and Spielberger’s State- Trait Anxiety Inventory, an effective tool for identifying patients’ anxiety responses in various situations. Two groups were selected for comparison: a control group without chronic illnesses and a main group consisting of patients diagnosed with diabetes. The results showed that diabetic patients exhibit significantly higher levels of anxiety-depressive and acute negative emotions, such as fear, shame, and disgust, compared to the control group, where these emotions were expressed at moderate levels. These emotional responses are associated with the constant need to monitor glucose levels and adhere to strict dietary restrictions, complicating daily life and causing a sense of chronic stress. The study confirmed the importance of providing psychological support for such patients, as chronic stress negatively impacts their emotional well-being and quality of life. The high levels of situational and personal anxiety observed in diabetic patients highlight the disease’s influence on psychological health and its potential to cause persistent anxiety tension. The findings could serve as a basis for developing individualized psychological support programs aimed at reducing stress levels, stabilizing emotional wellbeing, and improving the quality of life for diabetic patients.