Type 2 diabetes can take both a physical and emotional toll on those living with the condition. While the physical effects may be more apparent, the emotional aspects can be just as challenging. Understanding the emotional impact of type 2 diabetes is an important part of managing overall health and wellbeing.
Shock and denial
Receiving a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes can come as a shock initially. Many people experience denial and find it hard to believe the news. After all, type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease that requires significant lifestyle changes. It’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed, scared, or even angry after diagnosis. Some may grieve the loss of their old lifestyle and struggle to accept this new reality. Processing these difficult emotions takes time. Be patient with yourself and know that the initial shock and denial should pass.
Fear and anxiety
Living with diabetes understandably brings up fears and anxiety about the future. You may worry about developing complications like kidney disease, vision loss, or amputations. Thoughts around shortened life expectancy are also common. These fears are valid, but don’t have to control your life. Work on separating anxieties about the future from the present. Focus on what you can control today through medication compliance, glucose monitoring, diet, exercise, and other self-care. And remember all the advancements that are helping people live well with diabetes.
Guilt and shame
Type 2 diabetes is associated with being overweight, eating poorly, and having a sedentary lifestyle. Some view it as a personal failure to get diabetes. In reality, genetics plays a large role, along with social determinants of health that affect nutrition and activity levels. Still, many feel ashamed about having diabetes or guilty about past choices. Try to let go of shame; it serves no purpose. Instead, channel those energies into positive lifestyle changes that support your health.
Stress and burnout
The daily demands of diabetes management can wear anyone down. Checking blood sugar, tracking carbs, taking medication, and making countless diet and lifestyle decisions is exhausting. Throw in doctor’s appointments, insurance challenges, and potential complications, and you’ve got a recipe for high stress. Without proper self-care, diabetes burnout is inevitable. Make time for relaxation, social connection, and fun. Simplify routines when possible. Share the burden with loved ones. And talk to your care team if it all gets too overwhelming.
Depression
Living with a chronic illness puts you at higher risk for depression. In diabetes specifically, there appears to be a biological component, as high blood sugar levels can affect mood. Symptoms like fatigue, reduced activity, and change in appetite also overlap with depression. If sad feelings persist, reach out for mental health support to improve quality of life. Integrating psychotherapy and medication (if recommended) can help manage depressive symptoms.
Anger and frustration
Anger and frustration often crop up when living with diabetes. You may feel annoyed at constant glucose monitoring or resent having to stick to a special diet. Nagging from loved ones about diabetes care can be aggravating. Feeling like you “failed” if your A1C creeps up fuels frustration. People without diabetes saying things like “just take some cinnamon and you’ll be cured!” is infuriating. Finding healthy outlets to process these feelings prevents the anger from festering. Keep an open dialogue with your care team if it becomes overwhelming.
Mood fluctuations
The unpredictability of blood glucose levels can impact your mood. Spikes and drops in blood sugar can mimic emotional highs and lows. For example, high blood glucose may leave you feeling irritated for no reason. Meanwhile, a low may cause sadness and confusion. Patience and communication with loved ones goes a long way in smoothing out these fluctuations for everyone. Checking glucose levels throughout the day helps identify the source of unusual mood changes.
Relationship strain
Relationships with spouses, family members, and friends can become strained after a type 2 diagnosis. New health behaviors may shift social dynamics and unspoken rules at home. Partners may take on an unwanted parenting role. Friends who don’t understand diabetes may shun healthy choices. Spell out new needs clearly and compromise when possible. Consider involving loved ones in doctor’s appointments and diabetes education classes to get them on board. Therapy can also help navigate these relationship changes constructively.
Social isolation
The lifestyle overhaul that comes with type 2 diabetes can lead some to withdraw socially. Meal planning challenges and embarrassment over monitoring blood glucose in public provoke avoidance. Activity limitations may reduce get-togethers centered around food, drinks, or strenuous hikes. Make an effort to still connect with friends on “your terms.” Most will be happy to go walking instead of out to eat, or meet for a cooking class instead of drinks. Connecting with fellow “diabetes buddies” also eases isolation.
Sexual health effects
Diabetes often brings up concerns or difficulties with sexual health and intimacy. High blood glucose causes nerve damage that decreases sensation. Poor circulation also reduces arousal and natural lubrication. Medications can hamper performance too. For men, erectile dysfunction is common. Being open with your partner about changes is important. Explore different positions, lubricants, prescription medications, or devices that can help overcome challenges. Remember that emotional intimacy through communication fosters satisfying sexual connections.
Poor body image
Weight fluctuations are common with diabetes as new nutrition and exercise habits are established. Some gain weight from insulin or other meds. Rapid weight loss from uncontrolled high blood sugar also occurs. These changes can be tough on body image and self-esteem for those already struggling with excess weight. Focus less on the number on the scale, and more on labs illustrating improved health. And remember that health encompasses way more than size. Cultivating body acceptance and gratitude ultimately supports wellbeing.
Grief and loss
Type 2 diabetes represents a significant life change with many losses both big and small. Old hobbies and pastimes that are now too risky must be given up. Favorite foods might be off limits. Travel plans could require more preparation – or even cancellation if illness strikes. Pets may pass away if you’re hospitalized. These significant losses add up, and grieving them is a process. Allow yourself to mourn these changing aspects of life while also looking ahead to all the joy that is still possible. New hobbies, foods and adventures await.
Coping strategies
Living with any chronic illness presents emotional challenges. Here are some healthy ways to cope with the mental toll of type 2 diabetes:
- Talk to a mental health professional
- Join a diabetes support group
- Practice stress management techniques
- Focus on what you can control
- Make time for diabetes self-care
- Enlist help from loved ones
- Prioritize sleep, nutrition and exercise
- Connect with supportive friends
- Indulge in hobbies you enjoy
- Celebrate small victories
When to seek help
Occasional emotional struggles are expected when living with diabetes. But if feelings of depression, anxiety or anger persist daily for over two weeks, it’s time to get help. Left untreated, serious mental health conditions worsen overall health. Speak to your primary care provider or endocrinologist for a referral to a mental health specialist. With professional support, you can thrive emotionally – and physically – while living with diabetes.
The takeaway
Type 2 diabetes affects more than just blood sugar levels – it touches every part of life. Understanding the common emotional challenges allows you to tackle them proactively. Connecting with fellow diabetes warriors provides reassurance that you are not alone. While there are certainly difficult days, a fulfilling life with diabetes is absolutely possible. With patience, self-compassion and support, you can navigate the mental health aspects smoothly.