When most people think about diabetes management, the focus is often on physical health—blood glucose levels, medication, exercise, and diet. But for people managing diabetes, there’s another side to the story: the emotional rollercoaster that comes with the daily grind of self-care. Looking after your mind is just as important as looking after your body.
DIABETES DISTRESS VS. DIABETES BURNOUT
Although these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they’re a little different:
-
Diabetes distress is the ongoing emotional burden of living with diabetes. It’s the constant worry about your numbers, the guilt when things don’t go perfectly, and the fear of long-term complications.
-
Diabetes burnout is what happens when that distress builds up and tips you into a state of mental and emotional exhaustion. You might feel like you just can’t do it anymore—and sometimes, you stop trying.
UNDERSTANDING DIABETES DISTRESS
Occasionally feeling annoyed, pressured, or frustrated by the constant demands of living with diabetes is common. But when these feelings become more intense—when you start to feel defeated, discouraged, or weighed down by the challenges of diabetes—this is known as ‘diabetes distress.’
These feelings can come and go. Being aware of them and managing them is important, as persistent distress can progress to diabetes burnout.
Signs of Diabetes Distress :
-
Feeling weighed down: Most people managing diabetes feel like this from time to time. If these feelings stick around, it could be a sign you’re experiencing diabetes distress. This is a good time to reach out to your health professional for support.
-
Feeling concerned or worried about ‘failing’: Diabetes is complex and sometimes it feels like you’re putting in a lot of effort without seeing the results you want. This is common. Try to keep your expectations realistic and be gentle with yourself.
-
Feeling frustrated by unpredictability: Sometimes your diabetes management seems to work, and other times it doesn’t—often for no clear reason. This unpredictability is tough but remember, it’s okay to ask for help and support.
-
Feeling guilty when things aren’t going to plan: Things don’t always go perfectly, and it’s not always clear why. There’s no need to blame yourself or feel guilty. Be kind to yourself and talk things through with your healthcare professional.
WHAT DOES DIABETES BURNOUT LOOK AND FEEL LIKE?
Diabetes burnout isn’t just feeling a bit tired or frustrated. It’s a state of being completely overwhelmed by the demands of diabetes, to the point where it starts affecting your health and daily life. Here are some signs you might be experiencing diabetes burnout:
- Blood glucose levels are all over the place, and it’s a struggle to keep them in your target range.
-
Stopping or skipping diabetes medications or insulin more often.
- No longer checking blood glucose levels.
- Feeling overwhelmed by everything, even the smallest diabetes tasks.
- Having no motivation and feeling like you no longer care.
-
Stopping appointments with diabetes health professionals.
- The thought of managing diabetes fills you with dread.
- Wanting to ignore it all and pretend diabetes doesn’t exist.
If you’re nodding along to most of these, it’s important to reach out for support. Diabetes burnout can have a real impact on health, increasing the risk of complications if it leads to long-term high blood glucose levels.
TIPS FOR LOOKING AFTER YOUR WELLBEING
You’re not alone, and there are ways to lighten the load:
-
Talk about it. Share how you’re feeling with someone you trust—a friend, family member, or your healthcare team.
-
Break it down. Don’t try to do everything at once. Focus on one small thing you can manage today.
-
Connect with others. Join support groups or communities (online or in-person) to share experiences and tips.
-
Be kind to yourself. No one is perfect. Celebrate small wins and give yourself credit for all the hard work you do.
When to Seek Help
If diabetes distress or burnout is making it hard to take care of yourself, don’t wait—reach out to your GP, diabetes educator, or a mental health professional. They’re there to help, and there’s no shame in asking for support.
Looking after your mind is just as important as looking after your body. Managing diabetes is tough, but you don’t have to do it alone.
If you're interested in exploring the connection between mental health and diabetes, check out these other popular articles on our blog:
For more insights and resources, visit our blog.
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.
Glucology is dedicated to transforming diabetes management with innovative and effective solutions. Our extensive range of products, including insulin pumps belts, blood glucose meters, and glucose management tools, is designed to support individuals in managing their diabetes with ease and confidence. Trusted by over 350,000 people in 23 countries, Glucology collaborates with major diabetes organisations to provide reliable and high-quality diabetes care.
Discover more about our products and solutions to enhance your diabetes management journey. Join our community and experience the difference with Glucology today!
