Diabetes Support
Seek Support With a Therapist
For most people, the last thing you want to hear is, "I think it might be a good idea for you to speak with someone about your emotional stress." You may be offended by the implication that the disease is "in your head."
It is a fact that all people with chronic illnesses such as type 2 diabetes have stress. This stress makes it more difficult to handle everyday issues, much less crisis situations that may arise. Stress can even affect your blood sugar levels.
It is important to know that licensed and experienced mental health professionals have formed a base of knowledge over the years, and they have seen the positive results of therapy. The role of psychological counseling in managing a chronic illness is to help you develop appropriate and workable coping strategies to deal with all of the issues that affect you. And psychological intervention is an accepted component for everyone -- not just people who have "psychological problems" or diseases.
Psychological help can help you learn new coping methods along with the much-needed support of a professional who understands your feelings and emotions. It is most helpful if the therapist performing these services is trained in the area of chronic illnesses such as diabetes.
You may select a one-on-one session with a professional therapist. These sessions may include specific help with alleviating depression, anxiety, or stress. Other sessions may include a meeting with family members or a group session, such as a support group.
Look to Diabetes Organizations
There is also support available from numerous diabetes organizations across the nation. These groups can provide you with brochures on diabetes and related problems and assist you with finding a doctor or support group.
The pressures of living with a chronic disease can overwhelm you, but it does not have to be this way as support is available. Ask your doctor to recommend professional help and resources, including psychologists, support groups, or other patients who have type 2 diabetes and want to help others. Send away for pamphlets and brochures from national organizations, or go online and plug into an Internet support group.
Support from others can help you realize that you are not alone in dealing with type 2 diabetes. You can gain new confidence as you learn to handle the daily challenges of type 2 diabetes in a reasonable manner.
WebMD Medical Reference
Is This Normal? Get the Facts Fast!
Answer:
0-69
70-130
131+
Your level is currently
If the level is below 70 and you are experiencing symptoms such as shaking, sweating or difficulty thinking, you will need to raise the number immediately. A quick solution is to eat a few pieces of hard candy or 1 tablespoon of sugar or honey. Recheck your numbers again in 15 minutes to see if the number has gone up. If not, repeat the steps above or call your doctor.
People who experience hypoglycemia several times in a week should call their health care provider. It's important to monitor your levels each day so you can make sure your numbers are within the range. If you are pregnant always consult with your health care provider.
Congratulations on taking steps to manage your health.
However, it's important to continue to track your numbers so that you can make lifestyle changes if needed. If you are pregnant always consult with your physician.
Your level is high if this reading was taken before eating. Aim for 70-130 before meals and less than 180 two hours after meals.
Even if your number is high, it's not too late for you to take control of your health and lower your blood sugar.
One of the first steps is to monitor your levels each day. If you are pregnant always consult with your physician.
Did You Know Your Lifestyle Choices
Affect Your Blood Sugar?
Use the Blood Glucose Tracker to monitor
how well you manage your blood sugar over time.
This tool is not intended for women who are pregnant.
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