I have had diabetes since 2007, and throughout the years, I have learned a lot about this disease. At first, I had to learn how to accept the fact that I had diabetes. Then, I had to overcome the depression of knowing that having diabetes is now a part of my life. It took a while for me to cope with depression; however, in order for me to live, I had to learn how to take every day one step at a time. Believe it or not, that was harder than it sounds. I learned that in order to “finish,” you have to “start.”
Taking one day at a time is about setting some time aside for yourself. It’s important for your mental and physical health. My favorite “me time” activity is getting a massage because it’s so relaxing, it’s soothing, it releases stress and tension, and I feel amazing afterward. That’s the one time that I am not glued to my phone or a computer, because that time is all about me!
Before I became diabetic, I hated working out (I still don’t love it); however, I feel so much better when I do. In addition, when I take time to exercise, my blood sugar is more manageable. My stress levels are down, and I’m maintaining my body. All of this is a part of the healing and restoration process.
Additionally, when your diabetes is under control, your body processes your healing time better. When your diabetes is not under control, we heal at a much slower rate, which can lead to other health problems and complications. One of the most important things I have learned is that diabetes management is key. It’s not always easy, but it’s very necessary to living a longer life as a diabetic person. Drink your water daily, exercise for 30 minutes a day, take your medication, eat a balanced meal, and you’ll be just fine because you’re not alone.
There are over 35 million people who are just like us fighting to live and be better than the day before. You’ll often hear me say that there will be good days and bad days; know that it’s OK! The next day is a new day for you to do better, to feel better, and to simply try again. This is our life, and knowing that there are good days makes managing your diabetes something you can be proud of.
In closing, I challenge you to relieve some stress in your life no matter what, and it’s because stress alone is a silent killer (we already have diabetes, we don’t need anything else to worry about). Go get a massage, take a walk, try a yoga class, try meditating, or a little dancing. Choose whatever healing mechanism that’s going to help you to live another day.
Learn, share, and connect with others on WebMD’s Type 2 Diabetes Facebook Support Group.
Photo Credit: Adam Hester via Getty Images
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