Professor Deborah Christie
Professor of Paediatric and Adolescent Psychology and Consultant Clinical Psychologist
Diabetes isn’t just a physical condition. Its challenges can also take a toll on your emotional wellbeing, so it’s okay to be honest and open if you are struggling.
If you struggle with your emotional wellbeing because of your diabetes, that shouldn’t come as a surprise, says Deborah Christie, Professor of Paediatric and Adolescent Psychology and Consultant Clinical Psychologist at University College London Hospital’s NHS Foundation Trust. “Managing diabetes can be intrusive and burdensome,” she explains. “That can result in a low mood, anxiety, lack of self-care and, eventually, significant burnout.”
Accepting realities
Professor Christie emphasises that these types of feelings shouldn’t be considered mental health issues. “I prefer the term ’emotional distress,’ because these are reasonable emotional reactions to a challenging condition,” she says. “You have to come to terms with your reality. But you might need help to get there.”
The answer is to keep talking, says Professor Christie. “Talk to your healthcare team. Talk to your family or, if you’re in a relationship, talk to your partner, and tell them what you are going through. Talk to a clinical health psychologist who has experience with helping people through the challenges of chronic illness. Find someone who can help you think things through. Follow positive role models on social media who will give you messages of hope and encouragement.”
Your emotional wellbeing can be affected by your diabetes — it’s okay to be honest and acknowledge it.
Facing stigma
Understand that you will face stigma, consciously or unconsciously, from society, institutions and even healthcare professionals in some instances — and know how best to deal with it. “Stigma is created by a lack of knowledge and a fear of the unknown,” says Professor Christie.
“When human beings see something they don’t understand or perceive as scary, they can react negatively. Unfortunately, it can mean that people with diabetes don’t get equal access to treatment or are faced with barriers to services and needs. For example, schools might not let children with diabetes go on school trips.”
Seeking help
Your emotional wellbeing can be affected by your diabetes — it’s okay to be honest and acknowledge it. You’re not being weak or unreasonable. “The struggle is a real and normal part of living with diabetes,” says Professor Christie. “It doesn’t have to always be that way, so ask for help — and keep asking until you get the right help. Don’t give up.”
