Type 2 diabetes mellitus affects more than 220 million people worldwide and is increasing in prevalence. More than 1 million Australians have diabetes with most of these having Type 2.

Its physical impact is well documented, with diabetes management and complications having substantial implications for individual and societal health, psychological well-being and quality of life.

                                                                                                                Brown J et al BMJ June 1 2016

This presentation will discuss the impact of diagnosis, the stigma associated with this and the importance of taking a non-judgemental and person centred approach to supporting people recently diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes/Impaired Glucose Tolerance. This allows them to achieve sustainable lifestyle change for long-term benefit rather than a “quick fix” and the urge to medicalise with Pharmacology or Bariatric Surgery.