From Diagnosis to Empowerment: Taking Charge of Diabetes Management

Managing diabetes can be incredibly stressful. It’s an all-encompassing condition that impacts your whole self—physically, emotionally, and mentally—and can feel overwhelming and isolating. The American Diabetes Association reports that severe diabetes distress affects one in five people with diabetes. This distress can occur regardless of your A1C levels or what your doctor says. Each individual responds differently to the daily demands of living with a chronic health condition. 

Many people with diabetes describe feeling powerless over their blood sugar control and diabetes management. As a registered nurse living with type 1 diabetes, I’ve personally experienced and witnessed the struggle of managing the physical and emotional demands of diabetes. Some days it feels like no matter how hard I try, my blood sugars still go outside of range. Life’s daily challenges, combined with diabetes management, can sometimes make it hard to stay motivated and cope. It’s normal to feel discouraged or anxious, and it’s okay to admit when you feel like giving up. 

If you’ve ever dealt with diabetes distress, burnout, or depression, know that your feelings are valid. Managing diabetes is a lot to handle! Be compassionate with yourself—beating yourself up over elevated glucose levels or A1C results serves no purpose. Instead, release any guilt or shame, and work to identify your stressors. These stressors might be related to diabetes or to general life circumstances, but they all can affect your blood sugars and motivation. Recognizing your triggers is an essential first step toward emotional regulation. 

Building a support system is also crucial. Reach out to others who live with diabetes—chances are they’ve faced similar feelings. Consider attending community events or support groups for people with diabetes. These connections can inspire you to share struggles, celebrate successes, and make lasting lifestyle changes. Our upcoming three-month Diabetes Prevention and Management Program is designed to address these needs. It’s more than a class; it’s an opportunity to gain practical tools for managing stress, staying motivated, and improving your overall health. Through this program, you’ll find support from a community of people who truly understand your journey and are dedicated to helping you succeed. 

Lastly, don’t hesitate to communicate openly with your healthcare provider. While your doctor’s primary focus may be on lab values and medication management, it’s essential to ensure that your mental health is part of the conversation. If you’re feeling burnt out, speak up—even if your doctor doesn’t ask. A trusted provider can help you identify effective coping strategies, adjust your management plan, and connect you with mental health resources tailored to your needs. 

Diabetes can often feel like a full-time job on top of everything else in your life. Remember, you’re not alone, and feeling overwhelmed is a natural response. You’re strong and capable, and there’s no shame in asking for help. Seeking support, whether from peers, healthcare providers, or therapists, can make a meaningful difference. 

For additional resources, visit the American Diabetes Association at diabetes.org.

~Allie Saunders, CPT, CF-L2, CPPC, PN-L1, PN1-SSRC, GGS-1 and Anna King, BSN