Living with Diabetes

Diabetes is no joke, and plain and simple; it sucks! However, you know this. Once you get over the initial shock of having been diagnosed with this disease; it is important for you to learn how to manage it in order to have a healthy life for years to come. There is hope and a lot of success stories. So let’s get busy living and get back to fulfilling your purpose!

You may have heard people say they have “a touch of diabetes” or that their “sugar is a little high.” These words suggest that diabetes is not a serious disease. That is not correct. Diabetes is serious, but you can learn to manage it.

People with diabetes need to make healthy food choices, stay at a healthy weight, move more every day, and take their medicine even when they feel good. It is not always going to be easy, but you are worth it, and those who love you are too!

You are the one who is charged with managing your diabetes day by day. That means you are the most important member of your health care team. Always be sure to talk with your doctor about how you can best care for your diabetes to stay healthy. Others who can help are your dentist, diabetes doctor, diabetes educator, dietitian, eye doctor, foot doctor, friends and family, mental health care counselor, nurse, pharmacist, and social worker. You can take classes to learn more about living with diabetes, join a support group in person or online and find peer support in managing your diabetes.

Stress can raise your blood sugar, and it is important to lower your stress. Try deep breathing, gardening, taking a walk, meditating, working on your hobby, or listening to your favorite music. Always ask for help if you feel down, and find someone who will listen to your concerns. Of course, eat well, be active, and stay in constant contact with your health care team.

Diabetes sucks, but you can make the journey much more comfortable by listening to those who have the knowledge to help guide you.