If you’re dealing with Type 2 Diabetes, you’re far from alone. Millions of people are right there with you, grappling with the same challenges and experiencing similar emotional impacts. To put it in perspective, recent data suggests that nearly 10% of the global population could be affected by this chronic condition by 2045. That’s a staggering number, and behind every statistic is a person coping with the realities of the disease.
I am one of those statistics…I am one of those dealing with the everyday frustration that can come from taking pills, taking shots, pricking my fingers, wearing a device and more. It can be so frustrating when you feel like you are doing everything you can to manage this disease and yet the blood sugar numbers are not reflecting that!
Receiving a diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes isn’t just about the physical implications; it’s also a lot to process emotionally. At first, there might be shock or denial, followed by a realization that life is going to change. And trust me, it does. The need for constant vigilance in managing your blood sugar can be daunting, turning mealtime into a series of calculations and transforming exercise from a choice to a necessity.
And it doesn’t end there. The psychological burden of Type 2 Diabetes is ongoing. Imagine having to keep a lifelong eye on your diet, checking your blood glucose levels frequently, or having to remember to take your medications multiple times a day. For some, these daily responsibilities can lead to a sense of frustration and fatigue, which can be as challenging as the physical effects of diabetes.
But remember, this isn’t just an individual battle. There’s a whole world of support out there – from healthcare professionals who understand your frustrations, to support groups and communities of people who live with Type 2 Diabetes every day. Now, let’s take a closer look at the cycle of frustration that can come with diabetes management, and more importantly, how to break it.
The Cycle of Frustration in Diabetes Management
Navigating life with Type 2 Diabetes isn’t just about tracking your blood sugar and following the doctor’s orders. It’s a complex balancing act that often leaves many feeling defeated or overwhelmed. This isn’t just about the daily routine; it’s also about the unpredictability that comes with the disease.
You’re going to find out about the tough reality that many face: sticking to a diet and exercise plan isn’t as easy as it sounds. For those with Type 2 Diabetes, it means making significant and permanent lifestyle changes, which can be incredibly daunting, especially when temptations are everywhere.
Then there’s the stress of blood sugar monitoring. Imagine having to prick your fingers several times a day or feeling anxious about hypoglycemic (or low blood sugar) events. It’s a constant reminder of the disease, and that psychological toll is real and often underappreciated. If you have ever had a low blood sugar event, you know what I am talking about. The first time I had one I had foolishly taken my insulin shot before leaving home to go out to eat. I hadn’t eaten anything all day because we were going to a buffet and I wanted to have plenty of room to “pig out!”
It was to a Chinese restaurant so I figured I was good to go.
About 15 minutes into our drive to the destination 35 minutes away, I started to feel funny.
I felt drunk. I felt loopy. I wanted to lay down. Good thing I wasn’t driving because I am not sure we would have safely reached our destination!
By the time we got to the restaurant I was so wiped out that I didn’t even wait to be seated with the rest of my people I would be dining with, I just went to the buffet table and loaded up my plate!
The whole rest of the evening and part way into the next day, I felt like I had a hang over.
I have not had many low blood sugar events but each one was a frightening time. I started to carry some little candies with me so I could avoid this awful experience.
Of course, with Type 2 Diabetes, complications are a dark cloud that looms over. When setbacks strike, whether it’s a spike in blood sugar levels or a new health concern, it can feel like a huge blow to your morale. These setbacks aren’t just physical—they can deeply affect your state of mind.
This battle isn’t fought alone, though. social support networks and healthcare professionals play a critical role. They can be the lifeline in challenging times, helping with both management strategies and emotional support. In my opinion, cultivating a strong network is just as crucial as any medication.
Strategies to Cope with Frustration and Take Control
I’m going to share a key insight here: managing Type 2 diabetes effectively is as much about your emotional wellbeing as it is about the physical aspects. That’s where coping strategies come into play. You can always adjust your approach down the road, so choose something that resonates with you.
Start with a holistic approach. This isn’t just about diet and medication; it’s also about stress management and mental health. Integrate activities into your routine that help reduce stress, like yoga or mindful meditation, which may have a positive effect on blood sugar levels as well.
Personally, I hate yoga! So rather than do that, I take a walk and think peacefully or even pray as I am walking.
Set realistic goals for yourself. Don’t worry too much about the occasional slip-up in diet or exercise – perfection isn’t the goal, consistency is. Celebrate the small wins, like choosing a healthy snack or walking an extra block – these victories add up over time.
Embrace stress reduction techniques. From deep-breathing exercises to seeking therapy for diabetes-related distress, find what works for you to maintain a calm mindset. A lot is happening very quickly when managing diabetes, and these techniques can help you stay centered.
One of the things that I have found helpful, too, is a technique called tapping. I will talk more about this in a later post.
I really hope that you leverage the power of technology and community in your journey. There are apps to track your meals and glucose levels, and online forums where you can share experiences and tips with others who understand your struggle. I like using MyFitnessPal or LoseIt to track what I eat. They both have free versions that will do the basics for you. The pay versions offer more, but for most people, the free version will suffice!
In my opinion, it’s invaluable to remember that your first attempt at a healthier lifestyle doesn’t need to be your last. Adjust as needed, but keep your eyes on the long-term prize: a healthier, happier life alongside Type 2 diabetes.
Since I do believe that this disease can be reversed for many people, I will also be talking about that in later posts.
Hope you have a health-filled day!