How I Manage Stress While Living With Type 2 Diabetes

Managing stress can be a challenge for those living with type 2 diabetes. It's understandable that the additional responsibility of managing our blood sugar levels, in addition to the everyday stresses we all face, can become quickly overwhelming. With that in mind, there are several things you can try that might help keep your stress levels from getting out of control.

Maintain a healthy routine

First and foremost, being proactive in taking care of yourself regularly can mitigate stress. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as regularly eating nutritious foods, making time for physical activity, and prioritizing enough sleep can balance stress levels. Over time, having a routine can feeling grounding and sets you up to better handle unexpected stressful moments.

Self-care builds a strong foundation

If these things don't appeal to you, then find something that helps you relax, like reading a book or taking a hot bath. Find your "something" and commit to doing it regularly. Incorporating healthy choices into your everyday routine will make it a seamless transition for your lifestyle.

Try mindful practices to manage stress

Relaxation practices are essential tools we can all have in our "toolbox" that can be used in a moment's notice. Deep, mindful breathing and progressive muscle relaxation can be beneficial when feeling overwhelmed.

Fortunately, there are many ways to access these mindful practices for free without needing equipment! Check out apps like Calm and Insight Timer. Free YouTube channels offer guided meditations as well as inspirational videos. Even just a few minutes of deep breathing can make all the difference. Remember to check in with yourself every now and then - self-care is key to managing stress!

Connect with others who have type 2 diabetes

You may also find it helpful to connect with other people who have type 2 diabetes; hearing what strategies they use to cope with their own unique set of challenges can help give you new ideas for managing yours. Joining support groups or even Facebook groups can be highly motivating and encouraging in managing stress.

Ask for help

Lastly, don't hesitate to reach out for professional support from a counselor or healthcare provider if needed; sometimes, talking through our experiences with a qualified professional is the best way of finding solutions that work specifically for us. 

Managing diabetes is stressful

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the stresses associated with living with diabetes, don't be afraid to reach out for support! Talking to a mental health professional or counselor can provide invaluable tools and advice for dealing with stress and anxiety associated with having type 2 diabetes.

Overall, living with type 2 diabetes may bring some extra sources of stress into our lives, but no matter what situation we're facing - focusing on self-care and connecting with supportive resources available to us, such as family members and mental health practitioners, will always put us one step closer towards feeling better equipped at managing this condition long-term.

Remember that everyone needs some help now and again, so don't hesitate to reach out if you need it!  With these tips, you can better manage your emotions while leading an active life with type 2 diabetes!