Examining the Effect of a Novel Stress Reduction Intervention on the Control of Prediabetes: A Feasibility Study

Background Prediabetes is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cardiovascular disease. Although prediabetes is associated with chronic stress-related behavioral and physiological maladaptation, few studies have focused on chronic psychological stress. Purpose This study aimed to examine the feasibility and preliminary outcomes of Emotional Awareness and Expression Treatment (EAET) adopted and implemented among adults with high risk for prediabetes. Method This study used a prospective, within-subjects, repeated measures, uncontrolled design with a 4-week virtual intervention period and three measurement points for all participants: baseline, 3 months from baseline, and 6 months from baseline. Forty individuals were screened for prediabetes, and sixteen were eligible to participate. Divided into three groups, participants received four weekly virtual sessions of EAET. Glycated hemoglobin (A1C) and insulin secretion (C-peptide) were measured at baseline, 3- and 6-month periods in addition to self-reported eating habits, physical activity, and perceived stress. Results Twelve participants completed all sessions and were fully engaged in the intervention sessions. Across the study period, participants’ perceived stress and unhealthy eating habits decreased significantly. Glycated hemoglobin (A1C) showed a non-significant drop at 6 months, but the average C-peptide concentration, exercise frequency, and exercise duration increased significantly. Conclusions The EAET stress reduction intervention is feasible and showed promising results in reducing stress and decreasing risk factors for T2D. EAET can be further developed to reduce the incidence and prevalence of T2D, which could lead to a significant decrease in the direct and indirect health and cost burdens of T2D.