Managing diabetes is a 24/7 responsibility, and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed at times. This state of emotional and physical exhaustion is known as diabetes burnout. In this post, we’ll explore what it is, how to recognize it, and strategies to overcome it.
What is Diabetes Burnout?
Diabetes burnout occurs when the constant demands of managing the condition—checking blood sugar, planning meals, taking medication—become overwhelming. This can lead to feelings of frustration, neglect of self-care, and even depression.
Signs of Diabetes Burnout
Skipping blood sugar checks or insulin doses
Feeling irritable or resentful about diabetes care
Loss of motivation to maintain healthy habits
Avoiding appointments or discussions about diabetes
Increased feelings of stress, sadness, or anxiety
How to Address Diabetes Burnout
Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s okay to feel frustrated. Recognizing your emotions is the first step to addressing them.
Set Small, Achievable Goals: If diabetes management feels overwhelming, focus on one small step at a time, like testing blood sugar once daily or preparing a single balanced meal.
Seek Support: Talk to a healthcare provider, therapist, or join a diabetes support group. Sharing your experiences with others who understand can help. You can also chat with eddii in your app if you need someone just to listen or want a friend to tell you a joke.
Incorporate Stress-Relief Activities: Practices like yoga, meditation, or even taking a short walk can reduce stress and improve your overall outlook.
Leverage Technology: Use apps like eddii to track progress, set reminders, and gamify diabetes management for a more fun experience. You can also chat with your eddii diabetes buddy directly in the app to talk through your feelings.
Diabetes burnout is a common experience, but it doesn’t have to define your journey. If you are experiencing any of the feelings or behaviors mentioned here or in our diabetes distress post, it is important to seek support. You don’t have to do this alone!
By acknowledging the challenge, seeking help, and breaking tasks into manageable steps, you can regain control and feel more empowered.
Diabetes burnout is a mix of emotions and behaviors - from tiredness to indifference - that can make you feel a sense of hopelessness. Understanding this condition is important, and it’s the first step to taking steps to prevent it from getting worse.
Diabetes burnout doesn’t just affect the person living with diabetes either. Parents of kids with type 1 shoulder a lot of the same feelings, as they’re living with the condition so closely connected to their own lives. As a parent, it’s just as important to seek help if you’re feeling any of what we’ve outlined. Taking care of yourself will only better allow you to take care of your child living with T1D.
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