It’s not unusual for someone who has been diagnosed with diabetes or any chronic health condition to go through a period of denial. Psychologists say denial is a way for people to cope with something when they’re not quite ready to face it.
Diabetics may find themselves saying things like, “It’s no big deal. I only have a bit of sugar in my blood. All I have to do is take pills and I’ll be fine.”
However, taking control of diabetes is more complicated than simply popping a pill. It involves a careful balancing act of nutrition, exercise and, sometimes, medication. Left unmanaged, diabetes can present numerous health risks, including heart disease, blindness, and reduced circulation that can cause infections, ulcers, or gangrene. Minimizing the chances of such risks requires intensive self-care.
Why Do People Deny Diabetes?
Some people ignore a diabetes diagnosis because they feel fine and aren’t having any problems. Some don’t believe that they can attain the health goals set by their doctor, or won’t be able to make the necessary lifestyle changes. Others deny diabetes because of a lack of family support.
There’s also the issue of fear -- fear of low blood sugar reactions or other complications they’ve heard about. Fear may lead to depression and an inability to do what is needed to manage diabetes.
Recognizing Denial
It’s normal for diabetics to wonder if they’re somehow to blame for their condition. It’s also normal to think that a diagnosis of diabetes is somehow a mistake. And some diabetics think they’ll be fine because they can manage their condition with oral medications rather than injections.
However, according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), if diabetics are checking their blood sugar only once every few weeks or ignoring their doctor’s suggestions regarding diet and exercise, they are probably in denial.
The ADA also suggests that a person is probably in denial if they habitually say any of the following:
- “One bite of this fatty/sugary/unhealthy food won't hurt.”
- “I’ve had sores before. This one will heal by itself like the others did.”
- “I don't have time to do all the things they say I need to do.”
- “I feel fine. I don’t need to see the doctor yet.”
The Benefits of Changing Diet and Activity Levels
The balancing act between physical activity, blood testing, food and medication can seem daunting. Scott Johnson, a blogger in Minneapolis with type 1 diabetes, begins his blog with this quote:“Diabetes is like being expected to play the piano with one hand while juggling items with another hand, all the while balancing with deftness and dexterity on a tight rope.”
But it is essential to work at that balance if a diabetic hopes to maintain his or her health. An abundance of research indicates that managing diabetes is the key to lowering the risk of diabetic complications.
Changing habits, as is required with diabetes self care, is not easy. Adopting healthier eating habits, however, can help a person lose weight, minimize the risk of heart disease, lower cholesterol levels, and even improve the appearance of skin and hair. Adding more physical activity can also help a diabetic lose weight and increase energy levels.
Moving From Denial to Acceptance
Taking these steps can help a diabetic transition from denial to acceptance of their condition, the first step toward better health:- Share concerns, fears or anxieties with a health care provider. Research shows that it’s helpful to have a doctor to talk to.
- Join a group diabetes education program to help manage one’s condition.
- Work with a certified diabetes educator, alone or in a group. The educator can answer questions, discuss healthy lifestyle choices and help diabetics learn to take better care of themselves.
Sources:
“Denial.” American Diabetes Association. American Diabetes Association. 23 Aug. 2007
<http://www.diabetes.org/pre-diabetes/denial.jsp>
Deakin, T.A., J.E. Cade, R. Williams, and T.C. Greenwood. "Structured Patient Education: The Diabetes X-PERT Programme Makes a Difference." Diabet Med. 23(2006): 944-954.
Glasgow, PhD, Russell E., Deborah J. Toobert, PhD, and Cynthia D. Gillette, PhD, RD. "Psychosocial Barriers to Diabetes Self-Management and Quality of Life." Diabetes Spectrum 14.1(2001): 33-41.
<http://spectrum.diabetesjournals.org/cgi/reprint/14/1/33.pdf>
Johnson, Scott. Scott’s Diabetes Journal 23 Aug. 2007
<http://scotts-dblife.blogspot.com/>
Nebergall, Peter. “Diabetes and Denial.” National Federation of the Blind. National Federation of the Blind. 23 Aug. 2007
<http://www.nfb.org/Images/nfb/Publications/vodold/vspr9805.htm>
Papppert, Ann. “Diabetics in Denial.” Caremark Health Resources. 12 March 2007. Caremark. 23 Aug. 2007
<http://healthresources.caremark.com/topic/diabetesdenial>
Wolfer, Sarah. "Diabetics in Denial." Psychology Today. 30 Jun. 2005. Sussex Publishers. 23 Aug. 2007<http://www.psychologytoday.com/articles/pto-20040105-000019.html>.
Zgonis, DPM, Thomas and Gary Peter Jolly, DPM. “Diabetes Watch: Why We Shouldn't Overlook Psychosocial Issues In Patients With Diabetes.” Podiatry Today 17.8 (2004): 20-22.
<http://www.podiatrytoday.com/article/2873>
