How to support yourself emotionally: Mariana | T1D
How to support yourself emotionally: Mariana | T1D
by IBD Medical on September 12, 2024
A really important part of life and diabetes management is mental health. We've invited Mariana to share her story for our Diabetes Week theme: addressing emotional wellbeing. She is a fellow T1D and an educator by profession who has kindly opened up about her mental health journey. Through her own experience and learning to prioritise to care for herself, Mariana shares some life tips that can hopefully inspire others with ways to start the journey to a better mental wellbeing state.
General Mindset from Mariana:
Reaching out for help and being mindful with helping yourself mentally first
Admitting that a really important part of diabetes management is mental health
It's ok to feel like you're not able to deal well with your mental wellbeing by yourself
Focus on one thing at a time so you can be in a clearer state to get the things you need to sort sorted
Here are additional five tips on how to support yourself emotionally when living with Diabetes:
Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with understanding and supportive friends, family, and healthcare professionals. Join support groups or online communities where you can share experiences and feelings with others who understand what you're going through. Having a network of people who can offer empathy and encouragement is crucial.
Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself and acknowledge that managing T1D is challenging. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small, and forgive yourself for setbacks. Remind yourself that it's okay to have difficult days and that you are doing your best.
Engage in Stress-Relief Activities: Incorporate activities that reduce stress and promote relaxation into your daily routine. This could include exercise, yoga, meditation, reading, or hobbies you enjoy. Regular physical activity helps manage blood sugar levels and boosts your mood and overall well-being.
Set Realistic Goals: Establish achievable goals for your diabetes management and overall health. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps. Realistic goals provide a sense of accomplishment and motivation, helping you stay positive and focused.
Seek Professional Help When Needed: Don't hesitate to contact mental health professionals, such as therapists or counsellors, who have experience working with people with chronic conditions. They can provide strategies and support to help you cope with the emotional aspects of living with T1D.
Implementing these tips can help you better support your emotional well-being while managing T1D, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
In Australia, there are several avenues where you can build a support network for mental health when you have diabetes. Here are some resources and organisations you can explore:
Diabetes Australia: This national organisation provides support services, information, and resources for people living with diabetes. They offer various programs and support groups that can help you connect with others facing similar challenges.Website:https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au
Beyond Blue: Beyond Blue is a reputable mental health organisation in Australia. They provide a range of resources, online forums, and support services for individuals experiencing mental health difficulties, including anxiety and depression. Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
Headspace: Headspace is a youth mental health organisation that offers support and resources for young people aged 12 to 25. They have centres located across Australia where you can access professional help, counselling, and peer support. Website: https://headspace.org.au/
Black Dog Institute: The Black Dog Institute specialises in mental health research, education, and clinical services. They offer resources, programs, and online tools specifically focused on mental health and well-being. Website: https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/
ReachOut : ReachOut is an online mental health platform that provides information, tools, and support for young people and their families. They offer a variety of resources related to mental health, including online forums and community support. Website: https://au.reachout.com/
Online Support Groups and Forums: Consider joining online support groups and forums dedicated to diabetes and mental health. Websites like Diabetes Daily and HealthUnlocked offer platforms where you can connect with individuals who have similar experiences and share support.
It's important to explore these resources and organisations to find the most suitable support network for your needs. Additionally, consult with your healthcare provider who can provide guidance on local resources and support services available in your specific area.
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The content of this Website or Blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this Website or Blog.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (in the US) or 000 (in Australia) immediately, call your doctor, or go to the emergency room/urgent care.
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