Living With Diabetes
How can I learn to live with diabetes?
Diabetes can affect you - not just your body. It can affect your
feelings about yourself and how you get along with other people. One of
the first important steps in learning to live with diabetes is to understand how
you feel about it.
Everyone will have thoughts and feelings about having diabetes. Some
common feelings are listed here. As you read them you may become aware you
have some of these feelings or others.
What are some of these feelings?
Denial. Some people find it hard to believe they really have
diabetes. They might say they have 'sugar' or 'a touch of diabetes'.
They might think they do not really have to do anything to take care of their
diabetes. This is called denial.
Anger. Some people are angry about having diabetes and may
wonder "Why me?" They might act angry toward family, friends or clinic
staff. In fact they are really angry at the diabetes.
Depression. Some people may become very sad and blue over having
a 'disease'. At times they may feel hopeless.
Acceptance. Over time most people will adapt and adjust to
having diabetes. They may still wish they did not have diabetes, but they
are able to peacefully with it.
These feelings do not happen in any special order and may come and go at
different times. It is important to be aware of your feelings and how they
might affect how you take care of your diabetes and deal with others.
Six Steps To Break A Bad Habit: #4 Do you really want to change? You will need both desire and perseverance.
Dr. Joseph C. Adrich
What do I do about these feelings?
You may have had some of these feelings in the past. Think about how
you handled your feelings then. The way you handled your feelings in the
past can help you deal with them now.
What will help me handle my feelings about diabetes?
Many people find it helpful to talk about their feelings. You can talk
to family, friends or a professional. Family and friends will want to
help. It is up to you to tell them what would most helpful to you.
Sometimes it may be helpful to talk to someone who is not a family member or
a friend. It may be helpful to talk to a minister or pastor, or a mental
health counselor. If your feelings are strong they can block you from
taking care of yourself. If this happens, it is important to get help
dealing with them. You could also join out on-line diabetes group.