Need some help to better cope with diabetes? When you've had type 2 diabetes for a while, you've got the daily planning, the lifestyle changes and the meds down pat. Diabetes management is something that always has to be dealt with, in most aspects of your life. But how do you cope for the long haul?
It may seem that there are always things that you can't eat. Daily exercise may start to seem like a chore. Pricking your finger all the time, for blood glucose levels, can start to get on your nerves. Can you get burned out? Sometimes it may feel that way.
What are some ways that you can cope with your diabetes and avoid burnout?
Put a positive spin on negative thoughts.
Sometimes, the way you think can change how you feel. For instance, if you dwell on all the foods that you shouldn't eat, you'll feel deprived when you are around those foods. If you focus instead of all the good things that you are able to eat, such as fresh, crisp greens, ripe fruit, and special home-cooked recipes, you'll feel happier about mealtime, and less likely to miss the foods you used to eat.
Lean on family and friends.
You are not in this alone. It's okay to talk about what is bothering you. Some people who have a chronic illness, like diabetes, feel that they must always show a brave face. It's human to be frustrated at times, and it's normal to want to talk about what you are going through.
Forgive yourself the occasional slip-up.
Keeping blood glucose levels in a normal range can prevent or delay serious complications. But no one can be perfect all the time. As long as your A1C is as close to normal as possible, an occasional misstep is forgivable. It's important not to emotionally beat yourself up if you drop the ball once in while.
Most importantly, give yourself a compliment, now and then, for all your hard work.
Coordinating your own diabetes care is not an easy task. It can feel like a full-time job. So, take a moment and feel good about how well you take care of yourself. You deserve it.
