Did you know that up 20% or more of people with diabetes dealing with symptoms of depression? Today, we'd like to share techniques that people are using to move forward successfully.
These ideas were published by Dr. Joe Soloweijczyk in the ADA's Diabetes Spectrum journal. Although the journal is for helping doctors improve their treatment programs, we think you'll find the concepts valuable in your own thinking.
* Address the psychic toll of diabetes. Diabetes is a marathon, not a sprint. Those that treat diabetes must understand that feeling the enormity of this task is part of a successful coping startegy.
* Acknowledge Feelings of Powerlessness. To move forward, one must accept that he cannot change the past. What's done is done.
* Accept Reality. If someone is powerless against something, it's not productive to fight it. It's important to accept reality and focus on the areas that you can control.
* Deal with Anger. Anger is a common and understandable part of dealing with diabetes. It's important to acknowledge the anger. It's also important to find ways to channel that energy into positive action and avoid self-defeating behavior.
* Face Fears. Clinicians should ask: "What things are you afraid of regarding your diabetes?" Fear can be interpreted as anger, denial, irresponsible management, frustration, or sadness. Simply verbalizing these fears is helpful. Diabetes is a chronic illness and acknowledging the fears that come with it is healthy and normal.
* Validate Frustration. It is important for clinicians to empathize with patients and give them space to express their emotions. It's not always about "fixing" a problem. Sometimes someone just needs their feelings validated and accepted to start the healing process.
Do any of these ideas resonate with you? We encourage you to start an open dialogue with yourself, your loved ones, and your medical team.
Monday, August 23, 2010
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