Objective: This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral stress management training with regard to glycemic control, psychological distress (depression, anxiety, and stress) and quality of life in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods: A total of 60 patients with type 2 diabetes (34 females and 26 males mean age 49.5±5.7 y) were included in this study. They were randomly divided into 2 groups. Members of one group attended 10 weekly sessions of cognitive-behavioral stress management training, while other group did not. Test of HbA1c (glycosylated hemoglobin), DASS (depression, anxiety and stress scale), and quality of life questionnaires were administered on both groups before and after the intervention. This assessment procedure was repeated within 3 months follow up.

Results: After intervention, HbA1c, psychological distress, and quality of life improved significantly (P<0.01) in trained patients, but there was no significant change in these measures in the control group. These results remained constant within 3 months follow up.

Conclusion: Results show that cognitive-behavioral stress management training is an effective intervention for improving glycemic control, psychological well-being, and quality of life in patients with type 2 diabetes.