I Have Diabetes!

"Wow, I can't believe I have diabetes!"
"What will become of me?"
"How am I going to cope with that sickness? I don't know anything about it!"
"I can't see blood! how will I do a blood test? And how will I inject myself?"
"I'm sure I have diabetes because I did something wrong!"

So you were recently diagnosed and got those crucial tests results.
I'm sure one or more of those worries were sneaking into your head after you got those results.
Somehow it's even good, because it shows you didn't fall into the trap some of the new patients might fall into – and that's the denial.
Some people can't accept the fact they got this sickness and this denial is a serious trap, because the sooner you'll accept your diagnosis and begin learning about your diabetes, the sooner you'll achieve independence and good health under your care plan.

Other patients might experience several other feelings then denial.
There will be patients who might feel depression. That's the second trap I'm trying to avoid you from falling into!
Depression will lead you to helplessness, hopelessness, loneliness and lack of self-esteem.
That will take you two steps back instead of going ahead.

Many people with diabetes will go through a time of grieving.
It is normal to grieve over the loss of your health when you first diagnosed with diabetes or when a complication occurs.

Maybe you feel guilty that something you did caused your diabetes.
"I have diabetes because I ate candies too much?"
"Did I exaggerate with eating at all?"
"Is this my punishment?"
Sometimes you might feel very angry.
It is o.k. and normal, but remember that anger can bring hostility, and hostility will not take you anywhere.

So, what can I do?
First, do not go through this alone.
Get some help and support.
Try talking to family members, friends, health-care providers, religious leaders, or others with diabetes to get these feelings out.
Second, you should use any possible resource for strengthening.
If you think you need psychological help do not hesitate to get one.
Coaching can be very helpful.
If there is a diabetes support group you can join, then do so.
I personally recommend Harold Kushner's book When Bad Things Happen to Good People.
This book was written for people who have recently experienced a loss of a family member or a close friend or people who have to confront a disease.
Third, instead of being occupied with depression and grieving consider turning your efforts to something positive by volunteering or fund raising for diabetes organizations.

The next step after you recover from the first days shock is to work with your health providers in your neighborhood on a treatment plan, and to know your rights as a diabetes patient.
You can find help and tips for that in the
"Tips for Managing Diabetes" and "Diabetes Right Management" pages.