Which response is most supportive when a client with diabetes expresses distress about their spouse?

• A. What can I do to make you feel better?
• B. It seems you don't get along with your spouse.
• C. It's probably temporary. Your spouse needs more time to adjust.
• D. You are unhappy. Have you tried to talk with your spouse?

Answer: (A)

When someone with diabetes talks about distress related to a spouse, the focus is on offering empathy and inviting the patient to share what would help them feel better. Saying “What can I do to make you feel better?” starts with the patient’s feelings, validates their distress, and opens a collaborative path for support. It signals that you’re there to help and are willing to take concrete steps, rather than judging the situation or assigning a cause or timeline. This kind of respond-to-feelings approach builds trust and makes it easier for the patient to discuss coping needs, possible resources, or practical support at home. In diabetes care, emotional distress can affect self-management, so a supportive, patient-centered question helps address the issue and supports ongoing engagement in care. The other options either dismiss or minimize the feelings, imply a fixed timeline, or offer advice without inviting the patient to express their needs, which is less helpful in fostering trust and coping.