Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the quality of life and depression levels in children and adolescents diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and analyze the relationship between these outcomes and sociodemographic and clinical characteristics.

Material and Method: The study involved children aged 8-17 years diagnosed with Type 1 DM who presented to the Pediatric Outpatient Clinic of Tokat Gaziosmanpaşa University Medicine Hospital between July 5, 2021, and January 1, 2022, along with healthy children in the same age group. The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) assessed quality of life, and the Children's Depression Inventory (CDI) evaluated depression levels.

Results: A total of 83 patients with Type 1 DM and 86 healthy controls participated. The groups were similar in age and gender. Parent-reported PedsQL Physical Health Total Score, Psychosocial Health Total Score, and Total Scale Score were significantly lower in the patient group compared to controls (p-values 0.003, 0.010, and 0.004). The mean CDI score and the number of children with high CDI scores were significantly higher in the patient group (p-values <0.001). Patients with Type 1 DM had a 12.5-fold higher risk of depression compared to healthy children.

Conclusion: Type 1 DM is not only a physical condition but also has significant psychosocial effects. This study emphasizes the importance of psychosocial support and a multidisciplinary approach in managing Type 1 DM. Early psychosocial support and collaboration with mental health specialists are essential for follow-up care. Improving quality of life should include access to modern technologies.