Stress can hinder your diabetes care. For example, if you have so much on your mind that you jump meals or forget to take your pills, that will affect your blood sugar level.
Life will always have hurdles and setbacks, but you have the power to choose how you respond to it. Your Diabetologist is working on maintaining your diabetes but here’s something you can do on your own to help the medications. Use these tips as a start.
1. Maintain a positive attitude.
When things seem to be going south, it’s easier to see the bad instead of the good. Discover something to appreciate in every important aspect of your life, such as your family, friends, work, and health. This attitude can help you get through tough times.
2. Be gentle to yourself.
Do you expect too much from yourself? You have the right to say “no” to things that you don’t want or need to do.
3. Admit what you can’t change.
Ask yourself these three questions:
1. “Will this be equally significant a year from now?”
2. “Do I have control over these situations?”
3. “Is it possible for me to change my situation?”
4. If you can make things great, go for it. If not, is there another way to handle it that would be better for you?
4. Communicate to someone.
You can trust a family member or close friend. Some specialists can listen and help you find solutions. Ask your Diabetologist for recommendations if you’d like to see a psychologist or counselor.
5. Hit the power of exercise.
You can go off steam with hard exercise, revive on a hike, or do a relaxing mind-body activity like yoga. You’ll feel calmer.
6. Take time to relax.
Exercise muscle relaxation, deep breathing, meditation, or visualization. Your Diabetologist may know about classes or programs that teach these skills.
Remember that it’s essential to pay attention to your feelings. If you see that you’re feeling frustrated, exhausted, and unable to make decisions about your diabetes care, take action. Tell your family, friends, and health care providers. They can help you get the help you need.
