Why do diabetes and mental health issues go hand in hand? Let’s see, a life threatening, chronic auto-immune disorder that carries the risk of serious complications, and causes you to feel lethargic, foggy, intensely thirsty, tired, causes stomach pain, nerve pain, and headaches. And, to avoid these symptoms, you must be extremely diligent with everything you eat and drink, exercise, seeing doctors, taking medicine, checking blood sugar, documenting progress, rebounding from failures, managing stress, being prepared, and it all costs money, lots of money. Sounds stressful huh?
We all struggle to keep a positive attitude. Everyone has a bad day, or bad week. But, when you are having bad month, after month, it may be time to see a doctor or counselor. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, diagnosable anxiety disorder often means prolonged periods of difficulty concentration, irritability, uncontrollable feelings of worry, and loss of sleep. Additionally, persistent feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, sadness, loss of interest in family, friends or your favorite pastimes could indicate onset of depression.
Pay attention to these symptoms in yourself, your caregiver, or the diabetic in your life. And seek help. There is help. There is hope. You do not have to suffer in silence. You are not alone. You need a positive, proactive, and persistent attitude to mange diabetes. So, get your head healthy, and then work on your body. You can do it. We are here for you.