Common thoughts and feelings when living with diabetes
On paper, managing diabetes sounds pretty straightforward – take insulin to manage your glucose levels by matching it to the amount of carbohydrate in the foods you eat. However, those who live with diabetes know it is much more complex. Diabetes can be very practical, physically, and emotionally demanding. It is a 24/7 job that involves constant thought and effort.
It is very common for people with diabetes to experience various emotions that can seem unpredictable and confusing at times. Below are some common feelings that people with diabetes experience. Everyone is different, but you may relate to some of these – you’re not alone. Click on the button below to see a list of emotions you may feel.
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Emotions
People also experience lots of different thoughts about their diabetes. Click on the button below. You might have noticed your mind saying some of these things to you:
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Go to ‘Emotional wellbeing and diabetes: thoughts, feelings and behaviours’ or choose another section.
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Type One has been empowering for me in the 38 years I have been diagnosed. I understand the mechanics of glucose, glycogen, and the imperative of nutrition for human performance and diabetes management .
I learned this from the age of twelve years old . So the insight this provides is truly inspiring.
I recall in my early twenties feeling isolated , and embarrassed to inform a girl when on a date , fearful of rejection , of other people’s responses.
I still feel the equality act within the UK has still not altered the perception of the labour market or society , with regard to type one diabetes .
It is a hidden disability , that dominates the lives of the individual sufferer and their very close loved ones.
For years I was anxious to start a family with my wife, out of fear , of not providing my child with the best start in life .
When you have to think about testing, injecting , and then food , the way we do, it creates a dark pragmatism that can threaten the very relationships you hold dearest.
A lot of the time you are building unnecessary internal social walls of protection , if anyone reading this feels this way, don’t let anxiety or T1 get in the way . Take the risks in life .
I have probably felt all these emotions/thoughts at one time or another.
Hypers make me irritable while hypos
Are a different matter altogether. Being on a diabetic rollercoaster can affect emotions. I now recognise my trigger points and adjust accordingly
Over the years I’ve found that hypo’s can make me nasty and bad tempered which is hard for people around me, especially my partner. Where as hyper’s are comfortable with an unquenchable and frequent and long trips to the loo.
The seesawing affect that happens whilst doing your best is tiring and frustrating. Then comments from loved ones such as “Why can’t you just get it right” really don’t help. It seems like a never ending battle.
I’ve learnt over 25 years to deal with these thoughts and feelings