Stress / Coping

Stress / Coping, or dealing with the everyday challenges of diabetes, can be daunting. It is important that you know how to find support for you and your family to help you cope with living with diabetes. For more information on Stress and Coping, please review the related questions below.


Questions

Holiday Gift Suggestions
Q“I was recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and am trying hard to lose weight. I am worried about getting through the holidays because so many people give me gifts of fattening goodies. I just can’t bear to be tempted with more food treats, when I am trying so hard to manage my diabetes! My family and friends know I am working on weight loss, and some of them have asked me what I want for Christmas. What can I do?”

Effect of Stress on Blood Glucose
Q"I have noticed lately on some days, that my blood glucose levels have been staying about 70 points above what they should be. On these days, I wonder if the amount of stress that I am under at my job and elsewhere could cause this? I know that stress can raise the levels of my readings, but I was curious as to how much."

Depression
Q"Can diabetes cause anxiety? I have diabetes and have depression. Can the depression be a symptom of diabetes? My blood sugars are out of control and are usually high."

Helping a Spouse
Q"My husband has Type 2 diabetes. He doesn't take care of himself. I made him check his blood sugar and the monitor said "HI". After referring to the manual, I discovered that the monitor doesn't read higher than 500. Can you tell me how high blood sugar levels are when they become severe or dangerous? What happens or what should I do when they get this high? What is the average target zone? I have so many questions about diabetes; can you help with these for starters?"

 

Important Notice: The responses provided by the team of Diabetes Educators are based on their personal experiences and expertise as practicing diabetes healthcare professionals, and are not to be considered diabetes management advice from Abbott Laboratories. Remember that information provided by the team of Diabetes Educators is for general background purposes and is not intended as a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment by a trained professional. You should always consult your physician about any healthcare questions you may have, especially before trying a new medication, diet, fitness program, or approach to healthcare issues.

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