Stress is the feeling of being overwhelmed or unable to cope with emotional or mental pressure.
Stress alone has been proven to negatively affect our bodies, for instance, it can lead to weight gain, headaches, fatigue, muscle tension or pain, sleep problems, and more. Unfortunately, stress on top of dealing with type 2 diabetes can be detrimental to one’s overall health and greatly affect your quality of life.
An even bigger issue is that stress can also affect blood sugar levels, which can be damaging when dealing with diabetes.
In our previous blog on dealing with stress and diabetes, we shared a few tips on how to best manage your feelings. Your community partners at Unidos Contra La Diabetes would like to share some more helpful tips you can use to help cope with the worries and concerns regarding your diabetes.
Tips for Dealing With Diabetes-Related Stress
1. Stress Apps
With today’s smart devices, there is an app available for almost any circumstance. Thankfully, there are many helpful ones available that can help you to manage your stress better.
While some apps may charge a fee, their value will definitely outweigh the cost. Here are some of the top 2022 apps that can help you deal with your stress:
- Breathe2Relax
- Pacifica
- GPS for the Soul
- Happify
- Stress Doctor
2. Support Groups
In our previous article, we mentioned talking with a friend or family member about the anxiety and stress you may be dealing with in relation to having diabetes. However, some individuals may not feel comfortable doing so, and in those situations, it may be helpful to connect with a support group.
With a support group, you’ll find a group of like-minded individuals who are experiencing a situation similar to yours, meaning they’ll be able to understand what you are feeling and going through. There’s also the chance to make new friends and connections, which is a plus!
The Rio Grande Valley Diabetes Association can be a good resource to find a support group that meets your needs.
3. Be Easy on Yourself and Have Grace
After being diagnosed with diabetes, it can be a frustrating and overwhelming time, but being harsh on yourself will not improve the situation. What your responsibility is now is to focus on the moment, be easy on yourself, and work towards a healthier future.
One good way to practice grace is to use positive affirmations every day. Common phrases you can tell yourself include, “I am doing my best,” “I love my body and what it offers me today,” and “I am enough and doing a great job.”
Practicing grace and self-love will make your journey with diabetes smoother.
Unidos Contra La Diabetes: Here to Help Prevent Diabetes
Our professionals at Unidos Contra La Diabetes are right there with you! Reach out to us anytime, for we value your health, well-being, and happiness.
