Support: Diagnosis and Anxiety

Hi . Social events can be really tough. So much of our social culture revolves around food. Try to think about what matters most in these situations - the food or the time spent with your coworkers? Right now, when you are new to Type 2 diabetes and just beginning to learn about healthy eating, it might be wise to bring your own meal and simply enjoy socializing with the people you work with. If they ask, you can tell them the truth if you are comfortable doing so: that you are newly diagnosed and that you need to provide your own meals until you get it all figured out. If you treated it like it's no big deal, they will probably not stress about it either.

If that makes you uncomfortable, you can try the plate method at food-based social events. Simply fill half your plate with veggies, one-quarter with protien and the other quarter with carbohydrates. Here is an article about it that might interest you: https://type2diabetes.com/nutrition/meal-planning-pro. It's easy to follow because it is easy to visualize.

You spent a lifetime developing your current eating habits. You can't expect to change them in a matter of weeks or months. If reading labels is causing too much anxiety, try focusing first on the big-ticket items -- the things you know for sure will spike your blood sugar, like white bread or cookies or drinks that contain sugar. Studies show that it takes at least three weeks of doing something daily to make it a habit. Pick a few changes and focus on those for a month until they become habits. Then move on to something else. In time, eating for diabetes will, hopefully, become second-nature. I hope this helps and that others chime in with ideas. You'll get there in time. Gentle hugs. - Lori (Team Member)

Thank you, Lori! I really appreciate it!

The phrase "Support: Diagnosis and Anxiety" probably relates to a circumstance in which a person has received a diagnosis that is making them anxious and is looking for support or aid to deal with this anxiety. Here are some broad pointers on how to offer assistance in this circumstance:
Listen Engage Active Empathy
Promote Expert Assistance
Provide Information and Honour Their Wishes
Help with Practical Issues
Encourage self-care and avoid making assumptions by checking in frequently.
In circumstances like this, it's important to be patient, empathetic, and helpful. Your support can go a long way in helping the person get through this trying period. Anxiety associated to a diagnosis can be difficult.