We read so much about the effects of diabetes on the human body- as we should! High blood sugar and a failing pancreas affect just about every bodily system. People with diabetes have to carefully control their diet, exercise, and medications. Lurking in the back of their mind is the possibility of damage to their feet, eyes, kidneys, nerves, blood vessels, and more.
All this constant concern can affect a person psychologically. The stress of managing this serious disease every single day can become overwhelming. During National Diabetes Month, all of us at Montgomery Foot Care Specialists in Montgomery County, Alabama want to remind our diabetic patients to take care of their mental health as well as their physical health.
Here are three important actions you can take when it all seems like it’s too much:
- Acknowledge how diabetes is stressful for you. Take a moment to stop and think about what’s causing you stress. Are you forgetting to take your medication? Not getting enough sleep? Having trouble keeping track of your blood sugar? Not successful at managing your diet? What’s true for you and your diabetic journey?
- Ask for help. Reach out to a spouse, family member or close friend. Chances are they’ll be honored that you confided in them and happy to help you. Explain to them what you need to reduce your anxiety. What if you let them help you refill your prescriptions, remind you to do your daily diabetic foot checks, or pre-pack a supply of healthy snacks for you?
- Seek professional help. It’s not unusual for diabetes to lead to chronic anger, frustration, or even depression. A mental health professional can help you find better ways to cope that perhaps your spouse or friend can’t provide.
If you or a loved one is experiencing stress as a result of diabetes, remember that there’s help out there. You’re always welcome to call Montgomery Foot Care Specialists for advice. And, of course, don’t forget to visit our expert podiatrists once a year for a diabetic foot exam. Call us in the city of Montgomery at (334) 396-3668 or contact us online for an appointment with Dr. Heidi M. Christie and Dr. Chanda L. Day-Houts.