Emotional Impact of Diabetes
Diabetes and Depression
Major points to remember regarding diabetes and depression:
- People with diabetes are twice as likely to experience depression as compared to those who don't have diabetes.
- It's important to note that it is understandable and normal for diabetics to feel sad and overwhelmed at times.
- If you feel depressed, it is important to get professional help.
- It's important to address feelings of depression because it is hard to take good care of oneself when one feels sad or hopeless.
- If you feel controlled and limited by all of the dietary restrictions and medication regimen, speak to your healthcare provider about ways to create a structured way for you to allow yourself more freedom once or twice a week.
Support Aleinu
Session 2: June 15, 2009
Making Changes
Major points to remember about making changes related to diabetes:
- Diabetes is not about what happens in the doctor's office, it's about what the patient does at home.
- People react differently to a diabetes diagnosis. Some believe it is hopeless, while others pretend that they are just like everyone else and do not need to make any adjustments.
- The following tips are helpful in making changes:
- Learn the facts about diabetes (Ex: with good control, you can avoid complications)
- Don't look at your blood sugar readings as good or bad.
- If your numbers are in a non-safe place, think about what you can do to get your numbers back into a safe zone.
- If you feel overwhelmed, ask for help from friends or family.
- Consider structuring a regular "diabetes vacation" so you can get a break.
- Get support from other diabetics who will understand how you feel.
Support Aleinu
Do you tell others about your diabetes?
Major points to remember about whether or not to tell others that you have diabetes:
- Some diabetics don't like to tell others they have diabetes because they feel embarrassed or different.
- Telling others you have diabetes might help you in emergency situations like when you have a low blood sugar reaction.
Support Aleinu