Health status and quality of life are affected by psychological and social factors. Psychological distress directly affects health and indirectly influences a person’s motivation to keep their diabetes in control. When motivation is dampened, the commitments required for effective self-care are difficult to maintain. When barriers seem insurmountable, good intentions alone cannot sustain the behavior. Coping becomes difficult and a person’s ability to self-manage their diabetes deteriorates.

An important part of the diabetes educator’s work is identifying the individual’s motivation to change behavior, then helping set achievable behavioral goals and guiding the patient through multiple obstacles. They can provide support by encouraging you to talk about your concerns and fears and can help you learn what you can control and offer ways for you to cope with what you cannot.

Not feeling like yourself?

Sometimes depression can be difficult to diagnose. Talk to a psychologist, social worker, family member or diabetes educator if you:

• Avoid discussing your diabetes with family and friends
• Sleep most of the day
• Don't see the benefit in taking care of yourself
• Feel like diabetes is conquering you