Abstract:
Living with a chronic illness, particularly an invisible condition like diabetes, presents a unique set of challenges. The journey of coming to terms with this lifelong condition and learning to manage its various aspects can be overwhelming. Additionally, involving friends and family in this process can often lead to further complications. Research has shown that a significant percentage of individuals with diabetes experience moderate to severe levels of depression, anxiety, or both. Furthermore, the adoption of existing digital diabetes management tools remains low, despite the emergence of numerous solutions in recent years. Many current tools prioritize technology and clinician perspectives, neglecting the patient's needs and the relationship they have with their condition. This thesis will delve into the complexities of living with diabetes and its effects on mental health. It will explore the limitations of existing digital management tools and propose a human-centered design approach that empowers patients and enhances their overall well-being. By prioritizing the patient's perspective and incorporating their insights into the design process, I aim to create more inclusive and impactful digital solutions for diabetes management.
