As if having diabetes isn’t bad enough, you also have to contend with the stress that goes along with managing it. If you are one of the lucky ones who doesn’t have these types of difficulties, good for you. Otherwise, this is the link between diabetes and anxiety.
Possible Causes
Studies support having diabetes increases the likelihood that you will also develop other anxiety problems associated with it. A 2006 study, estimated this possibility at 20% higher than people that didn’t have diabetes. This figure was particularly concentrated in Hispanic Americans and young adults.
Everyday stress can tax even the healthiest individual. Add to it a serious medical complication, and that stress increases exponentially. As a diabetic, you now have to contend with the anxiety of managing your blood levels. Something you have never had to worry about before. As well as keeping your diet and weight manageable and conducive to your diabetic lifestyle.
This is compounded with other larger picture anxieties about your future health. Will you be enough to stave off major complications like kidney disease or stroke? And, what about daily dangers that can lead to serious long-term side effects like hyperglycemia? It may happen if you give up your control and vigilance for even a second. At least, this type of thinking is what can compound the feeling of anxiety.
And, of course, like other things that are bad for you, stress and anxiety can put you at risk for type 2 diabetes. There is a study that points to symptoms of stress increasing your risks. The risk strongly depends on many other factors as well, though.
What You Can Do
The best thing you can do is take care of yourself. Make some lifestyle changes. Quit smoking and alcohol, get moving and exercise, make sure you get enough sleep every night and keep maintaining your healthy diet.
Therapy is also an option. Talk things out with a professional and get healthy mentally. And, if need be get medication for your anxiety.
Final Thoughts
There is a cyclical link between diabetes and anxiety. One feeds the other, indefinitely. Break this cycle and take control of your life. Don’t let feelings of negativity further ruin your health. Seek help when you need to so that you finally have time to relax.
