Arts-Based Storytelling for Diabetes

This trial explores whether storytelling and creative arts can help young people with diabetes feel more connected and improve their well-being. Participants will attend weekly Arts-Based Storytelling Workshop Series to share experiences and engage in activities like writing and drawing. The researchers aim to determine if these activities can boost social connections and emotional health. The trial seeks individuals aged 16-25 with diabetes, who are patients at the UCSF Pediatric Diabetes Clinic and can attend group workshops and complete surveys. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to enhance emotional health and social connections through creative expression.

The trial does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems to focus on storytelling and creative activities, so it's unlikely that you'll need to change your medication routine.

Research has shown that arts-based storytelling is safe for participants. Studies have explored using this method to help people manage diabetes and improve their well-being, finding no harmful effects. Participants often enjoy the activities and find them helpful for expressing feelings and connecting with others. The program includes creative exercises such as writing, drawing, and storytelling. These activities aim to enhance social connections and self-expression without any safety risks.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about the Arts-Based Storytelling Workshop Series for diabetes because it offers a unique, creative approach to managing the psychological aspects of living with the condition. Unlike standard treatments that focus on medication and diet management, this workshop aims to enhance social connection and emotional well-being through storytelling and art. By engaging participants in creative expression and group discussions, it fosters a sense of community and helps individuals develop a positive illness identity, which is often overlooked in traditional diabetes care.

Research has shown that arts-based storytelling can help people with chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, manage their condition more effectively. Engaging in creative activities like storytelling and art improves self-care and emotional well-being. Studies suggest that sharing personal stories, known as narrative medicine, strengthens social connections and provides emotional support. This trial will evaluate the Arts-Based Storytelling Workshop Series, which aims to help individuals cope with their illness by fostering a sense of identity and encouraging self-expression. Although more research is needed, early findings are promising for supporting adolescents and young adults with diabetes.¹²⁶⁷⁸