Table 4 Correlation matrix for coping strategies, diabetes specific-distress, depression and diabetes self-care

Brief Cope (Total Score)

0.475***

0.246*

0.007

Behavioural focused

0.430***

0.175

0.062

Emotional focused

0.374***

0.321**

0.003

Adaptive coping strategies

 Active coping

0.247**

0.108

0.078

 Use of emotional support

0.079

0.141

0.263**

 Use of instrumental support

0.159

-0.039

0.118

 Positive reframing

0.278**

0.142

0.104

 Planning

0.120

-0.001

-0.017

 Acceptance

-0.053

0.003

-0.016

 Religion

0.122

0.102

0.129

Maladaptive coping strategies

 Self-blame

0.238**

0.150

-0.171*

 Self- distraction

0.370***

0.137

0.017

 Denial

0.402***

0.191*

-0.071

 Substance use

0.193*

0.177*

-0.066

 Behavioural disengagement

0.448***

0.170

-0.023

 Venting

0.326***

0.206*

0.068

 Humour

0.173*

0.230**

-0.016

*p =  < 0.05

**p =  < 0.01

***p =  < 0.001