Improving outcomes for adults with type 1 diabetes by addressing emotional distress

ACT1VATE: Addressing Emotional Distress to Improve Outcomes Among Diverse Adults With Type 1 Diabetes

Phase 2 Interventional Scripps Whittier Diabetes Institute · NCT04933851

This study is testing whether a new therapy called 'ACT1VATE' can help adults with type 1 diabetes who are feeling very stressed and have trouble managing their condition, compared to regular diabetes education.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment250 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorScripps Whittier Diabetes Institute Academic / other
Locations1 site (San Diego, California)
Trial IDNCT04933851 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial compares a psychological intervention called 'ACT1VATE' with traditional diabetes self-management education and support (DSME/S) to improve health outcomes for adults with poorly controlled type 1 diabetes who are experiencing significant emotional distress. The study will involve 250 participants who will be randomly assigned to either the ACT1VATE group, receiving telemedicine group therapy sessions, or the usual care group, receiving standard diabetes education. The primary outcome measured will be glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, along with assessments of behavioral and psychosocial outcomes through online surveys. The trial aims to leverage electronic health records to identify eligible patients and track outcomes over a 12-month period.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are Spanish or English-speaking adults with type 1 diabetes and HbA1c levels between 7.5% and 12.5% who are experiencing diabetes-related emotional distress.

Not a fit: Patients with severe medical or psychological conditions that interfere with participation or those lacking the technology to engage in telemedicine may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve glycemic control and emotional well-being for patients with type 1 diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using psychological interventions for chronic conditions, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Spanish or English-speaking
* Type 1 diabetes
* Glycosylated Hemoglobin (HbA1c) 7.5% - 12.5% in last 90 days
* Screen positive for diabetes distress

Exclusion Criteria:

* Severe medical or psychological conditions that would interfere with participation based on the opinion of a provider
* Plans to move out of the San Diego area in the next 12 months
* Lack of technology capability required to complete online surveys and telemedicine visit

Where this trial is running

San Diego, California

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Type 1 DiabetesEmotional Distress
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.