Social Determinants of Mental Health in Diabetes: Intersectionality and the Sustainable Development Goals

Author : Maria Clara Cavalcante Castilho, Cynthia de Freitas Melo, Ícaro Moreira Costa, André Faro

Abstract : Introduction / Objective: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition that significantly impacts mental health, particularly in the post pandemic context, where social determinants of health have become increasingly evident. This study examined the predictive capacity of social variables on mental health indicators in people with diabetes. Method: Quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional, and analytical study with a non-probabilistic national sample of 462 people with diabetes, predominantly women (87.6%), mean age 56.38 years (SD=10.14), mostly heterosexual (91.8%), white (58.2%), and with higher education (60.2%). Participants completed an online questionnaire including the GAD-7, PHQ-9, WHO-5, and BASE-6 scales. Descriptive analyses, biserial correlations, and multiple linear regressions were performed. Results: Relevant levels of psychological distress and reduced well-being were found. Mean scores were: GAD-7=10.82 (SD=6.10); PHQ-9=12.71 (SD=7.77); WHO-5=29.54 (SD=22.33); BASE-6=23.12 (SD=9.71). Regression analyses identified greater vulnerability among women, racial minorities, individuals with lower education and income, those without private health insurance, those with prior psychological/psychiatric treatment, and those with longer diabetes duration. Conclusions: Mental health is significantly shaped by social determinants, reinforcing the need for public policies integrating clinical care and psychosocial support, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Keywords : Diabetes, Mental Health, Social Determinants, Depression, Anxiet

Conference Name : International Conference on Health Equity, Public Health and Epidemiology (ICHEPHE-26)

Conference Place : Osaka, Japan

Conference Date : 15th Jul 2026