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Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine how fear of hypoglycemia (FOH) is associated with glycemic variability (GV) and self-management behavior in young adults (aged 18–35) with type 1 diabetes (T1DM). Procedures Using a prospective repeated-measures design, in 35 young adults, within- and between-person and temporal associations of FOH, specific self-management behaviors, and GV were measured. The data were collected using questionnaires and real-time measures using daily diaries, insulin pump downloads, actigraphy, and continuous glucose monitoring. Findings FOH was associated with greater glycemic variability. Significant temporal associations emerged. Concurrent day (glucose SD, p = .011) and previous-evening fear levels were associated with GV (glucose SD, p = .007). FOH was also associated with greater calorie intake (r = .492, p = .003) and less physical activity (light activity, r = −.341, p = .045). Conclusions The significant associations of FOH with GV, dietary patterns, and physical activity provide evidence for FOH as an important psychological factor associated with diabetes care.

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The prevalence of adolescent overweight is significant, almost 25% in some minorities, and often is associated with depressive symptoms. Psychological and psychosocial factors as well as poor coping skills have been correlated with unhealthy eating and obesity. The purpose of this study was to examine relationships among self-esteem, stress, social support, and coping; and to test a model of their effects on eating behavior and depressive mood in a sample of 102 high school students (87% minority). Results indicate that (a) stress and low self-esteem were related to avoidant coping and depressive mood, and that (b) low self-esteem and avoidant coping were related to unhealthy eating behavior. Results suggest that teaching adolescents skills to reduce stress, build self-esteem, and use more positive approaches to coping may prevent unhealthy eating and subsequent obesity, and lower risk of depressive symptoms.