University of Southampton

Department Member, NETSCC

Other Affiliations: University of Birmingham, School of Medicine
University of Warwick, Medical School

Health Psychologist

Thesis Title: An Exploration of Quality of Life Issues Associated with Insulin Pump Therapy in Type 1 Diabetes

About

Dr Barnard, Chartered Health Psychologist, specializes in the psychosocial impact of diabetes. Having attained an Open University undergraduate honours degree, followed by an MSc Health Psychology and PhD at the University of Southampton, Dr Barnard has a longstanding research interest in the psychosocial issues associated with diabetes. Through this research, a broad understanding has been gained of the factors that contribute to the quality of life and the impact that diabetes has on both the individuals with the condition and their family members.

The effect of diabetes, both medically and socially in terms of everyday coping, psychosocial impact and psychological burden, is a multifaceted and complex area and Dr Barnard’s research to date has made significant advances in unravelling some of these complexities. Other research interests include maximizing recruitment to clinical trials and self-monitoring of blood glucose in Type 2 diabetes. Dr Barnard is an associated lecturer at a number of UK Universities and maintains strong academic links.

Dr Barnard’s collaborative research has demonstrated that the prevalence of co-morbid depression in T1DM is significantly higher than in the general population (including in young adults) with similar levels to that observed in Type 2 diabetes. Exploration of patient-professional communication has highlighted the enormous burden of disease and prevalent difficulties with communication within out-patient clinics.

Current research develops these issues further in an exploration of the prevalence of co-morbid depression in adults on intensive insulin therapies; and research to minimize the impact of social risk factors on diabetes control in young adults. A keen supporter of Diabetes UK, Dr Barnard strives to contribute where possible to help enhance the lives of people living with diabetes.

Contact Information