Group-based storytelling in disease self-management among people with diabetes

Abstract

Objective We explored the underlying mechanisms by which storytelling can promote disease self-management among people with type 2 diabetes. Methods Two, eight-session storytelling interventions were delivered to a total of eight adults with type 2 diabetes at a community health center in Toronto, Ontario. Each week, participants shared stories about diabetes self-management topics of their choice. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, transcripts from each session and focus groups conducted during and following the intervention were coded and analyzed using NVivo software. Through content analysis, we identified categories that describe processes and benefits of the intervention that may contribute to and support diabetes self-management. Results Our analysis suggests that storytelling facilitates knowledge exchange, collaborative learning, reflection, and making meaning of one’s disease. These processes, in turn, could potentially build a sense of community that facilitates peer support, empowerment, and active engagement in disease self-management. Conclusion Venues that offer patients opportunities to speak of their illness management experiences are currently limited in our healthcare systems. In conjunction with traditional diabetes self-management education, storytelling can support several core aspects of diabetes self-management. Our findings could guide the design and/or evaluation of future story-based interventions.

An Integrative Review Considering the Impact of Storytelling and Sharing Interventions in Stroke

“…The reduction in loneliness is supported by past evidence [ 8 ]. In addition, past reviews have identified that storytelling interventions can enable coping and enhance knowledge [ 10 ] and provide an opportunity to express and understand true experiences and feelings related to the illness [ 10 , 23 ]. Additionally, storytelling has been reported to reduce psychological distress and allowed fears and worries to be discussed [ 23 ].…”

“…Social and internal mechanisms identified within the current review have also been identified and supported by past review evidence in chronic illnesses. For instance, self-reflection has been identified as a key process and mechanism through which positive impacts of storytelling can be found, as it allows participants to create and re-create plots of their own story [ 8 , 10 , 23 ]. Further to this, social comparisons can help change the perception of their own situation and make the individual feel less isolated [ 8 ].…”

“…Participants who had been diagnosed with any of the three main subtypes of stroke, namely ischemic stroke, intracerebral haemorrhage and subarachnoid haemorrhage, were included. No limit was identified for the time post stroke, because of the lack of evidence around using storytelling and because past reviews [ 8 , 9 , 10 ] have identified consistent results which are likely common across participants. Participants who had been diagnosed with transient ischemic stroke (TIA) were excluded, as TIA lasts less than 24 h and often does not lead to any long-term impairment [ 15 ].…”

“…Literature reviews that consider storytelling interventions across chronic illness groups have found consistent evidence which illustrates a number of benefits including; an ability to create a collective group voice and learning, ability to mobilise the group’s mental well-being, reduced levels of depression, increased socialisation, and increased levels of perceived quality of life [ 8 , 9 , 10 ]. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no integrative review has been conducted to consider the value and impact of ‘storytelling and sharing’ on individuals with stroke.…”

Theater Performing Arts (TPA): Community Empowerment to Improve Blood Glucose Control Behavior in Yogyakarta

“…This condition was influenced by the patients' motivation and perceptions about the importance of introducing DM interventions. It was influenced by the interaction between patients or patients with nurses (professionals) when giving material (35)(36)(37). Peers share experiences in controlling blood glucose (38) and improve the self-management of patients with DM (34,39).…”