Ways to Help Yourself
Don't be surprised if you sometimes feel like there's lots to do to manage type 2 diabetes . Here are some tips to help you keep on track:
Stay motivated
Stay motivated
- If you're having trouble staying with your diabetes plan, think about what the problem may be.
- Ask yourself what you need to do to get on track. Find one step that could get you started. Choose something fairly easy.
- Find things you can do to keep the problem from happening again. Focus on your successes, not your slip-ups. Don't beat yourself up for backsliding.
- It's normal to feel overwhelmed with the demands of managing diabetes. Accepting that you have diabetes doesn't mean that you have to like it.
- The more you know about diabetes, the easier it is to manage. Visit this program, whenever you need a refresher. Read books and visit respected Web sites about diabetes. Or, take a class in your community. See a diabetes educator at least once a year for more tips on living with diabetes.
- Decide what type of support you need from your family, friends, co-workers, or healthcare team. Then tell them. Odds are, they'll be happy to help and flattered that you asked them.
- Some of the areas you might need help with are setting goals, overcoming obstacles, and solving problems.
- Teach your family and friends about type 2 diabetes. Ask them to listen to what you think and feel, and to support you in making some healthy changes. For instance, they may want to exercise with you.
