Psychological Effects of Diabetes

Diabetes is one of the leading causes of disability and death in the United States today. Information about possible physical damage to the body and concern about growing rates of diabetes in children and teens take center stage in most related discussions. But, there are some serious psychological effects as well that must be considered. Handling these might make the difference in whether someone is successful in managing this condition or not. In a “Wear Blue” campaign, the Diabetes Association of Atlanta and communities across the country are sharing information for National Diabetes Month in November. Many of the over thirty million people affected in the United States and another eighty-four million at high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes may be unaware of how the mind and body work or do not work together to manage diabetes.  Traditional advice – watch your weight, eat healthy, and get more physical activity – can save many people from progressive, system-wide damage to the entire body, but what works for one person may not work as well for another. What looks like simple solutions may not be simple at all. Without addressing the psychological component, the best exercise and menu plans may be useless, especially if co-occurring illnesses are present. Blood glucose levels rise as a result of stress and other physical problems. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems also complicate control.    We are driven, to a certain extent, by past beha...
Source: World of Psychology - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Health-related Mental Health and Wellness Diabetes Source Type: blogs