The thesis was conducted in collaboration with the Finnish Diabetes Association, and its purpose was to investigate the experiences of young individuals with type 1 diabetes regarding everyday coping and challenges. The aim of the thesis was to produce information for the Finnish Diabetes Association about the coping strategies of 15-19-year-old individuals with type 1 diabetes, focusing on self-care, self-esteem, and acceptance of their chronic condition. The theoretical framework addressed the everyday coping strategies of young individuals with type 1 diabetes, encompassing three distinct areas: self-care, self-esteem, and acceptance of the chronic illness.

The thesis was conducted as a quantitative research study, using a survey as the method of data collection. The survey was specifically created for this study. Responses to the survey were collected electronically through the Google Forms platform. The data was gathered through social media channels, and total of 108 responses was collected.

The results revealed that majority of young diabetics have experiences treatment fatigue in their daily lives, and the most significant individual negative aspect of the illness was perceived as the constant management required. On average, about half of the respondents had intentionally skipped insulin doses, and the most common reason for this was treatment fatigue and fear of hypoglycemia. The youth felt that they receive sufficient support for managing their condition. Most of them believed that type 1 diabetes causes some level of stress regarding the future. The most prominent individual concerns about the future were the dreams that diabetes hinders, as well as a carefree life and limitations on entering the military.

The study revealed that young people experience treatment fatigue in their everyday lives and yearn for a more carefree existence. Survey responses highlighted that diabetes is an illness that cannot be put on pause even for a day. Based on the research, it can be concluded that listening to the opinions of young people is essential to develop activities that cater to their needs and prevent the treatment fatigue they experience. In our opinion, an important topic for further research would be how to prevent caregiver fatigue among young individuals and how to better recognize them as individuals. This would help ensure that every diabetic receives the necessary assistance and support they need.