Being diagnosed with any form of diabetes is a life-changing moment. While diabetes is considered a chronic condition, there are ways to help manage diabetes and live a long, healthy life. Still, it's normal to be angry or feel overwhelmed after a diagnosis. To help you better understand how to navigate diabetes and mental health, here's some insight into the emotional impact of living with this condition.
The Emotional Impact of a Diabetes Diagnosis
Living with diabetes requires some major changes, and many people experience disbelief, grief, anger, resentment, depression, stress, anxiety, and more. Others may internalize blame, thinking that they're to blame for a diabetes diagnosis. This isn't true. Diabetes is a medical condition with complex causes and is not your fault.
No matter what you're feeling after being diagnosed with diabetes, it's important to process your emotions in a healthy manner. This is often easier said than done, which is why getting help from a professional and creating a support system is so important.
A strong emotional response can also occur as a parent with a child who has just been diagnosed with diabetes. Children may not understand what diabetes is, what the effects of diabetes include, and what life with diabetes will be like. This can be difficult for many parents, and that's okay. You will, however, need to learn how to prioritize pediatric diabetes care until your child can handle things on their own. Luckily, there are plenty of diabetes specialists to help you along the way.
What to Know About Diabetes and Mental Health Conditions
While diabetes is a physical condition, it can have a significant impact on your mental and emotional well-being. Diabetes can make it difficult to process emotions, as you may feel overwhelmed. However, understanding your feelings is the first step to getting help. Some of the most common conditions that are associated with a diabetes diagnosis include the following.
Stress
Stress is a common experience for people living with diabetes. Managing the daily responsibilities of the condition—monitoring blood sugar, maintaining a healthy diet, and taking medications—can feel overwhelming. Stress can also impact blood sugar levels, creating a cycle where high stress leads to poor management and vice versa. Recognizing your stress triggers and practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help you break this cycle.
Depression
People with diabetes are two to three times more likely to experience depression than those without the condition, according to the American Diabetes Association. This connection may stem from the emotional burden of managing diabetes and dealing with its complications. Depression can make it harder to maintain a diabetes care routine, leading to worsened physical and emotional health. It's essential to recognize the signs of depression, such as persistent sadness, fatigue, or loss of interest in activities, and seek professional support if needed.
Anxiety
Diabetes can also heighten anxiety, especially for those who fear hypoglycemia (low blood sugar episodes) or worry about potential long-term complications. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) may develop, leading to persistent worry, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating. If your anxiety becomes unmanageable or begins to interfere with daily life, speaking to a therapist or counselor can help you regain control.
Mood Swings
Some people with diabetes may also experience a range of mood swings that coincide with changes in blood sugar levels, stress, or other mental health conditions. Based on a 2020 research review, evidence suggests that both high and low blood sugar can result in some fluctuations in how you're feeling.
These mood changes could be caused by the side effects of blood glucose readings outside of your typical range, which is completely understandable. For example, low blood sugar may result in confusion, irritability, nervousness, fatigue, and feeling dizzy or uncoordinated. High blood sugar can result in fatigue, an inability to focus, and excessive thirst. All of these things can impact mood, regardless of whether you're living with diabetes or not. Still, if you're experiencing mood swings, it's best to talk with your doctor to reevaluate your diabetes management plan and try to find an effective solution.
Understanding Diabetes Distress
Diabetes distress is a specific type of emotional challenge that stems from managing diabetes on a day-to-day basis. Unlike clinical depression or generalized anxiety, diabetes distress is directly tied to the challenges of living with and managing the condition.
For many, the ongoing demands of checking blood sugar levels, counting carbohydrates, and taking medications can feel overwhelming. Others may feel burdened by the financial costs associated with diabetes care or worry about how their condition affects loved ones. These emotions can lead to burnout, where it becomes difficult to maintain the self-discipline required for effective diabetes management.
It's important to recognize diabetes distress as a valid emotional experience. If you or a loved one are showing signs of diabetes distress, it's essential to seek professional help.
If you or someone you know is in crisis and needs immediate help, call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988. You can also text or chat with a 988 Lifeline counselor by texting the same number 24/7/365.
Tips to Help Address Mental Health Challenges
It's important to be compassionate with yourself and, if necessary, work with a professional to help you manage your diabetes and process your emotions. Here are some tips to help you address some of the mental health challenges that many people face.
Create a Diabetes Management Plan
Having a structured plan for diabetes care can alleviate some of the stress associated with managing the condition. Work with your healthcare provider to create a plan that includes monitoring blood sugar, setting dietary goals, and staying on top of medications. A clear plan can make daily management feel more manageable and less overwhelming.
Take Things One Step at a Time
Living with diabetes is a marathon, not a sprint. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by everything you need to do, but breaking tasks into smaller, achievable steps can help. Focus on making gradual improvements to your diet, physical activity, or glucose monitoring routines rather than trying to tackle everything at once.
Try Not to Dwell on Things You Can't Control
Blood sugar fluctuations happen, even when you’re doing everything right. Instead of fixating on the “why,” focus on the “what now.” Take corrective action when necessary and move forward. Remember, perfection isn’t the goal—progress is.
Try to Stay Active
Physical activity can significantly improve your mood and overall well-being. Regular exercise helps regulate blood sugar levels, reduce stress, and boost the production of endorphins—your body’s natural mood elevators. Find an activity you enjoy, whether it’s walking, dancing, yoga, or cycling, and aim for consistency.
Address Mental Health Issues
If you’re experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or diabetes distress, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Therapists, counselors, and social workers who specialize in chronic illnesses can provide coping strategies tailored to your needs. In some cases, medication may also be helpful and worth discussing with your healthcare provider.
Find a Support Group
You’re not alone in your journey. Joining a diabetes support group can connect you with people who understand what you’re going through. Sharing experiences, tips, and encouragement with others can be a powerful way to feel supported and less isolated.
Prioritize Self-Care
Taking time to nurture yourself is essential. Whether setting aside time for hobbies, practicing mindfulness, or treating yourself to something you enjoy, self-care can help replenish your emotional reserves. Diabetes management is important, but so is your overall happiness and mental health.
Make Time for Yourself
Life with diabetes often revolves around schedules and routines, but don’t forget to carve out moments just for you. Doing something that brings you joy, such as reading, gardening, or spending time with friends, can help maintain a positive outlook and reduce stress.
Some Helpful Resources for People with Diabetes
While it's always recommended to work with your healthcare provider or a diabetes educator to learn more about your individual circumstances, there are a few online resources that can help you with emotional and mental health challenges related to diabetes. Some of these include the following:
For additional diabetes support and management, Byram Healthcare has a range of continuous blood glucose monitors. For more information on diabetes supplies and educational materials, sign up for Byram Healthcare’s Caring Touch at Home™ Program. The Caring Touch at Home™ Program combines convenience, affordability, and choice to deliver extensive service and support to people with diabetes.
