Adjustment to a diagnosis of adult-onset diabetes is a gradual process. Moreso than in other chronic illnesses, active self-management is an imperative part of staying well. Those who generally feel confident in their ability to successfully complete tasks are apt to adjust better to being diabetic. In a 2010 article in the diabetes journal Acta Diabetologica, lead author Carlos J. Gois reports that more a strong education in diabetes helps facilitate a better psychological adjustment to the illness.
Fear
A new diagnosis of adult-onset diabetes often brings a sense of fear to the individual. He may fear dying or fear a serious change in his lifestyle. He may fear needing insulin in the future and having to give himself shots. He may have a strong fear of the unknown or fear being perceived as ill and incapable by others.
Shame
An individual may feel ashamed upon learning she has adult-onset diabetes. She may feel that she has brought on something unhealthy for herself and burdensome for her family by not maintaining her body weight or exercising properly over the years. Similarly, she may feel embarrassed when she has to check her blood sugar or otherwise care for her diabetes in the presence of others. A man with diabetes may be affected by the common complication of impotence, causing him to feel embarrassed or ashamed.
Anxiety
Adult-onset diabetes can bring on significant stress. Blood sugar may have to be checked three times each day, with no days off for rest or vacation. Diet must be carefully regulated and the doctor must be frequently visited for examinations and laboratory blood work. Medications and supplies must be purchased and kept in stock. According to lead author Wendy Rapaport, L.C.S.W., Ph.D. in a 2000 article in Diabetes Spectrum, diabetes affects an individual's life emotionally, spiritually, socially and psychologically. The chronic stress of managing all of these issues can bring on feelings of anxiety.
Sadness
An individual may respond to diabetes with sadness, feeling powerless that his future has changed. He may miss being able to eat as he wishes or eat a meal without checking blood sugar first. Other required changes, such as stopping smoking and ceasing alcohol use, may compound the feelings of powerlessness and sadness.
References
- "Diabetes Spectrum"; Diabetes Through the Life Span: Psychological Ramifications for Patients and Professionals; Wendy Rapaport, L.C.S.W., Ph.D. et al.; 2000
- "Acta Diabetologica": Psychological Adjustment to Diabetes Mellitus; Carlos J. Gois et al.; 2010
- "Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing: Concepts of Care in Evidence-Based Practice"; Mary C. Townsend, M.N., A.P.R.N.; 2006
