Diabetes and Emotions: Managing StressCoping with the daily challenges of diabetes management can add stress to your life. It is one morething you need to think about each day.But stress can also come from other areas of your life – family, work, friends.Having high levels of stress can raise your blood glucose.And all stress will have a direct impact on how well you manage your diabetes.“It took a while for me to get over the anger, largely because at the time of my diagnosis, mywork life was so stressful that I really did not have time to focus on that, so it really didn’t takeuntil aft-- I want to say two, three years later.”Of course, it is impossible to completely avoid stress. So instead, find healthy ways to cope with it.Stick to your routine: be sure to get enough rest and to take your medications, make healthy foodchoices, and exercise as usual.Lastly, find time to relax and enjoy life. Remember, diabetes is only one part of your life.Relaxing hobbies and spending time doing activities you enjoy can help keep things in perspectiveand help you refocus on what’s important.“I love to read. I cross stitch. I like to watch old movies, and enjoying time with my family.”“I like to mountain bike; I have a road bike. I also like to exercise, work out with weights.”Once you discover activities you enjoy, don’t forget to make time to include them in your daily routine.You may also want to include specific relaxation techniques to further take your mind off any stress ornegative emotions.Listening to music, deep breathing exercises, guided imagery, visualization, yoga, acupuncture orbiofeedback can help you relax, regroup and give you the energy to continue managing your diabetesdaily.
Understand what long-term behavior goals are, and learn how choosing long-term goals one at a time, can help you make healthy changes that last a lifetime.
