Coping with Diabetes

Providing willing support on behalf of special dietary needs without undue fuss goes a long way in demonstrating your appreciation of their "normalcy"...

For diabetes sufferers and their friends, coworkers and family, the psychology of this disease often proves more complex than expected. Mood swings resulting from varying blood sugar levels vary between patients, and can result in depression, aggression, or absent-minded spells that become tell-tale signs of the need for more sugar or a higher insulin dose. It is important for those supporting the diabetes patient to recognize those symptoms specific to each individual for what they mean, and help by administering the necessary treatment or bringing the patient's attention to the problem so they may address the need themselves. At no time should caretakers or associates of any position take the diabetes sufferer's actions personally when they act out during such times, as their behavior is most often involuntary.

On the other hand, it is the patient's responsibility to understand and accept the full range of conditions he or she is subject to as a result of diabetes, including those which mandate a reliance on others' impressions and suggestions. Realizing that sound judgment may be impaired by a rise or drop in blood glucose level is the first step to accepting input and constructive criticism from those in a position to keep your best interests in mind. It serves no one to shut down or sink into self-pity. Family members and close associates who know you best are often as affected by this disease as the sufferer, and striving to maintain equilibrium therefore becomes a social responsibility, and a common courtesy to those whom you love and respect.

Many diabetes sufferers experience embarrassment, shame and self-consciousness about this disease, which despite its prevalence remains largely misunderstood. Because its symptoms are not often obvious, diabetes patients must battle a daily struggle with little sympathy offered by an unwitting public while coping with feelings of inadequacy, fear or loss of control. In many cases, the psychological battle waged takes a higher toll than the physical one.

For patients experiencing more advanced symptoms, their emotional health becomes critically important in order to maximize the effect of whatever treatments might become necessary. For instance, poor circulation, high blood pressure and increased risk of stroke mandate an ongoing regime of exercise and a fitness routine developed under wise doctor's counsel. Diabetes patients concerned with putting up a good front to prove well meaning loved ones wrong often fail to address changing health needs or heed early symptoms.

When additional treatments come into play, such as high blood pressure medication, side effects can be exacerbated by the varying temperaments already experienced by the patient. Poor circulation can easily progress to open sores, requiring careful attention because of a diabetic's tendency to heal slowly. It is vital for even the most robust patients to seek medical care without allowing their pride to get in the way. Avoidance and refusal tactics can lead to life-threatening dangers quickly if not addressed.

The best defensive tactic in coping with diabetes is to take the offensive. Learn as much as you can about this complex disease, its many varied symptoms, and the wide range of treatment options available at this time. Remain open-minded and flexible, and maintain a healthy attitude whether you are the diabetes patient, or their caregiver. Remember that it may take time to learn the full range of symptoms and behavioral clues specific to any given diabetes sufferer, and that one patient's treatment needs may vary widely from another's, even within the same family.

Diabetes doesn't have to define its patients. As a caregiver, being respectful of the diabetic's feelings goes a long way. While on the one hand it's important to treat them as a strong companion potentially full of vitality, it is equally important to speak up without reserve if their behavior or physical symptoms show signs for concern. Obviously, foregoing decadent desserts in their presence is only common courtesy. Providing willing support on behalf of special dietary needs without undue fuss goes a long way in demonstrating your appreciation of their "normalcy," and helps ensure their emotional security that may suffer as a result of this multi-faceted illness.

Consult a trusted medical professional for more tips on coping with diabetes.

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