Emotional health

Staying emotionally healthy when you have diabetes is important. If you are sad, depressed or angry for too long, you are less likely to give your diabetes the attention it needs. As a result, your self-care can suffer. Plus, keeping your life in balance is good for your physical and emotional health.

People react to learning they have diabetes in many different ways. Some people feel shocked or fearful; others feel angry, depressed or sad. Some people are relieved, because they anticipated something worse, and others are resigned to the fact that it was bound to happen. Still others deny they have diabetes at all, and continue to live life as before.

Most people need time to adjust to their new circumstances once they have diabetes. Just as there are many ways of reacting to diabetes, there are many ways of incorporating it into everyday life. The key is to find a balance and keep diabetes and diabetes treatment in perspective. Diabetes does not have to take over your life.

One way to help keep balance in your life is to continue doing activities you enjoy. Make a special effort to do your favorite activities and spend time with your favorite people.

Remember, you are not alone. If you are feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope with having diabetes, ask for help. Talk to a member of your diabetes care team about your feelings and concerns.

For more information, see right navigation or learn about International Diabetes Center's education and health psychology services.

To make an appointment with International Diabetes Center, call 952-993-3393 or toll-free at 888-825-6315.