18/03/2026
Someone asked me recently if I had Type 2 diabetes myself? My answer is no I don’t! But obviously in my role I’ve diagnosed quite a few people over the years. I approach their care in the same way I would hope to be treated myself. It’s how I’ve always nursed.
A person-centred approach at diagnosis of type 2 diabetes is less about what you say first and more about how you build a professional, trusting relationship The aim is to make the person feel heard, safe, and supported — not overwhelmed with too much information.
Here’s a practical, structured way you can approach the care of someone newly diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.
1. Start with Elicit (what matters to them?)
Before giving any advice, understand their world.
• “What have you been told so far about your results?”
• “How are you feeling about this diagnosis?”
• “What concerns you most right now?”
This does three things:
• Gauges baseline knowledge
• Surfaces emotions (often shock, guilt, fear)
• Shows you are listening first, not lecturing
REMEMBER: The diagnosis has happened to them, not to you!
2. Practice intentional listening
This is where patients feel cared for.
• Let them speak without interruption
• Use reflective statements:
• “It sounds like this has come as a shock”
• “You’re worried about what this means long term”
• Sit with silence (don’t rush to fix)
This builds trust faster than any guideline ever will!
3. Ask permission before giving information
AVOID the “information dump”.
• “Would it be okay if I explain what this means?”
• “Can I share some options with you?”
This keeps the patient in control and reduces the risk of them feeling overwhelmed.
4. Provide simple, tailored information
Focus on what matters now, not everything.
• What is type 2 diabetes (brief, non-technical)
• Reassurance: “This is something we can manage together”
• Immediate priorities only:
• Lifestyle basics
• Whether medication is needed now
AVOID
• Long complication lists
• Complex targets upfront
5. Shared decision-making (not directive care)
Instead of:
“You need to lose weight and start metformin”
Try:
• “There are a few ways we can approach this—would you like to hear them?”
• “What feels realistic for you at the moment?”
Then:
• Agree 1–2 small, achievable goals.
This increases adherence and confidence.
6. Set personalised goals
• “What would you like to be different in 3 months?”
• “What’s one change you feel ready to try?”
Examples:
• Walking 10 minutes daily
• Reducing sugary drinks
Goals should feel achievable, not perfect.
7. Acknowledge emotions and reduce blame
Many patients feel guilt or shame.
Say things like:
• “This is not your fault”
• “There are lots of factors that contribute to diabetes”
This is hugely important for engagement.
8. Safety net and continuity
End with reassurance and a plan:
• “We’ll take this step by step”
• “You’re not on your own with this”
• Arrange follow-up for the 9 annual care processes (annual MOT)
9. Offer support beyond the consultation
• Structured education
• Written/visual resources
• Signpost support (apps, groups)
Example opening question:
“I’d like to understand how this has been for you first—what went through your mind when you heard the diagnosis?”
The balance to aim for
• 70% listening / 30% talking
• Focus on their priorities, not your checklist
Leave them feeling:
• Heard
• Reassured
• Clear on next steps
I really hope this helps? Please comment if it does?
