Diabetes mellitus in adolescents: a comprehensive approach to outpatient care.

A comprehensive approach to care of adolescents with diabetes mellitus requires knowledge of the unique characteristics of juvenile diabetes during this development period, appropriate medical goals, and awareness of the numerous psychologic and social problems encountered. Involvement of other health professionals is frequently needed. Successful adjustment of the adolescent to having diabetes includes absence of "maladaptive" coping mechanisms, realistic future goals, and acceptance of responsibility for self-care.