“Type 2 diabetes is said to be a lifestyle disease. A lifestyle disease is a disease associated with how a person or group of people live.” Unfortunately, this thinking has cast a stigma on the disease; many folks keep their diagnosis a secret. I know that was my case; I didn’t tell anyone, including my family, for the first six months after my doctor declared that I was pre-diabetic. But keeping this kind of secret can take a toll on you.
Dealing with a chronic illness well will mean that instead of keeping secrets, you surround yourself with people who love and support you; the healing process requires that you have emotional as well as medical support. I hope to end the stigma associated with this disease, but to do that, we must be willing to share our stories.
- Ask for help. Many studies have found that social support significantly affects how folks with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes can manage the disease. Let your family and friends know what kind of help you need. You might ask your partner to refrain from teasing you about the food you have decided not to eat; you could spend time together with someone who eats healthy; you can also get professional support by hiring a health coach or registered dietitian.
- Find a friend. Slimming down is more fun when you have a partner. You may feel more accountable knowing that someone else depends on you to get up in the morning for that walk in the park or meet them at the gym after work. Your friend can also be the voice of reason when you’ve had a rough day and want to hit your favorite fast-food drive-through. Together you could become an unstoppable force.
- Find Your Tribe. Do you feel more comfortable communicating virtually? Use your computer to take Zumba or yoga classes. I belong to a gym. I use gym bikes to work out with Kaleigh Cohen on YouTube. She has a vibrant online community that is super supportive. You can join a forum where you can share advice and encouragement, and if there is no such group in your area, start one of your own and invite other midlife folks who are suffering from prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. You are more than welcome to join The Diabetic Toolbox Facebook Group.
Click this link to download your copy of my new eBook: You Are Stronger Than You Think-Affirmations to Heal, the Mind, Body, and Spirit - Talk to your doctor. If you are feeling low or suffering from anxiety or depression, then speak with your doctor about getting help. Plus, you should talk to your doctor before starting a weight loss program. That’s especially true if you’re significantly overweight, sedentary, or coping with a chronic condition like prediabetes.
Keeping medical secrets could be dangerous for your family: to create a successful wellness goal, we must know our family’s medical history. If you are diagnosed with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. Your children need to know to take preventative measures as soon as possible.
With Peace and Love,
Renee
The Diabetic Toolbox 