The Effects of an Emotional Intelligence Skills Training Program on Anxiety, Burnout and Glycemic Control in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the effects of an "Emotional Intelligence Skills Training Program" on anxiety levels, burnout, and glycemic control in type 2 Diabetes mellitus (DM) patients. Material and Methods: The Samsun Diabetes Society announced a program designed to improve emotional intelligence skills and asked for volunteers. One hundred and forty two type 2 DM patients volunteered. The participants were tested for HbA1c levels and were given the Bar-On Emotional Quotient Inventory (EQ-I), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). Thirty-six patients from both genders with the lowest test scores from MBI and BAI were randomized into training and control groups. The training group participated in a 12-week program. At the end of the program, the scales were re-administered to both groups and 3 and 6 months later to the study group. HbA<inf>1c</inf> levels were tested before each scale application. Results: The initial HbA<inf>1c</inf> measurements and pre-program results revealed no difference between the two groups (p> 0.05). Post-program scores of the training group proved that they had higher emotional intelligence skills and lower levels of emotional burnout, anxiety and HbA<inf>1c</inf> levels than those who did not participate in the program (p< 0.001). The study group had lower HbA<inf>1c</inf> measurements at the end of the program, and three and 6 months later than their initial ones (p< 0.001). Conclusion: This program may have a positive effect on glycemic control in type 2 DM patients by promoting their emotional intelligence skills by improving their anxiety and burnout levels. Copyright © 2009 by Türkiye Klinikleri.