Diabetes Distress Scale

The Diabetes Distress Scale (DDS) is a 17-item self-report measure that quantifies emotional and psychosocial distress specifically related to living with and managing diabetes. Developed by Polonsky and colleagues in 2005, the DDS captures diabetes-specific worries (e.g., regimen burden, fear of complications, social stigma, lack of support) that are distinct from generalized depression or anxiety, making it essential for identifying and addressing the emotional obstacles to optimal diabetes self-management.