786-P: Describing and Comparing Mindfulness Practices on Diabetes Self-Management (DSM) and Glycemic Control in Adolescents with T1D

Abstract

Adolescents with T1D often experience stress leading to poor DSM and suboptimal glycemic control. Mindfulness, as a trait or learned skill, is a protective factor against stress and is associated with positive wellbeing. Yet, little is known about mindfulness in adolescents with T1D. This study describes self-reported mindfulness practices and compares mindfulness on DSM and A1c in adolescents with T1D. Adolescents (12-18 yrs) completed questions on mindfulness practices [having mindfulness experience (yes vs. no), types, and duration] and a valid measure of DSM (Self-care Inventory) during routine diabetes clinic. A1c was obtained from medical record. Data were analyzed using descriptive analyses and group comparative analyses were used to examine the association between mindfulness experiences, type and duration on DSM and A1c. Adolescents (n=128) were 59% male, 88% white, on average 15±2 yrs of age, mean diabetes duration of 7±4 yrs, mean moderate level of DSM of 57±8 (range:15-75), and A1c of 8.3±1.6%. About one third (30%; n=38) reported having mindfulness experience with 23 (61%) being formal (e.g., breathing, body scan, mindful meditation, mindful yoga); 19 (50%) being non formal (e.g., mindful walking); and 4 (11%) being religious. Almost half (45%, n=17) reported practicing mindfulness for < 3 mos, 5 (13%) for (3 - 12 mos), and 16 (42%) for > 1 yr. Several participants (n=8, 21%) reported using mindfulness mobile apps (e.g., Headspace, Calm, Pokémon Go) or YouTube. Adolescents with more than one type of mindfulness practice (e.g., formal with non formal or religious) and those with religious experience reported better DSM than those with one type of mindfulness practice [F(3, 34)= 5.2, p=0.005]. About a third adolescents have been exposed to some mindfulness practices. DSM was better among participants who reported practicing more than one type of mindfulness. Introducing mindfulness training tailored to adolescents with T1D could be beneficial. Disclosure H. Abujaradeh: None. D. Charron-Prochownik: None. B. Galla: None. S.M. Sereika: None. M. DiNardo: None. C.A. Feeley: None. P. Viswanathan: None. Funding National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners; Sigma Eta Chapter; University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing