For people with diabetes and mental health issues, solving your psychological matters is fundamental to taking care of your diabetes. For specific individuals, medicine is needed; for others, holistic options like yoga and acupuncture may help. At times, it is a combination of both. About everyone can profit emotionally from talk-therapy.
What are the best options for you, personally? Delineating the best course of action takes patience and time. It can help to collaborate with a Psychotherapist, Certified Diabetes Educator, or even a Psychiatrist if needed. If you live with Attention Deficit Disorder, psychiatric medication will help with the day-to-day maintenance required for diabetes—but implementing useful management techniques does not occur overnight. Individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, or other mood disorders may find medication very helpful and should give it a fair try. If it ends up working for you, great! You may have to try several medicines before landing on the right one for you. If you choose not to go on psychiatric drugs, you could always try alternative medications under your doctor’s supervision, of course.
Whether you chose to go on medication or not talk therapy is an excellent way to get non-bias support. No one method will work for all. While making an informed decision as to whether you are going to start medication. Think about this:
- Psychiatric medication helps to balance the mind. It allows individuals who fight to manage their diabetes focus on diabetes-related tasks needed for healthy control.
- While medication isn’t a magic pill that will take away the issues you face, they help millions lead healthier and more balanced lives.
- People are different! The course of action that will work for you most likely will not work for your friend who may be living with similar issues.
- Only you can determine what is best for you. However, it is important to listen to the expert’s medical advice. It’s their job to help you help yourself.
- Working on one’s health is hard work, and developing healthy coping mechanisms will take time and diligence, regardless of your decision to take medication or not. It’s about you making a commitment to yourself and sticking with it.
Only a mental health professional has the knowledge needed to give a proper diagnosis and adequately prescribe medication. Your general practitioner should refer you to a specialist instead of prescribing medications.
It’s essential to keep in mind that the road to emotional and physical health is a long one, and you may have some setbacks along the way. Take the delays in stride, and keep your eye on the prize: a healthier and happier you.
Eliot LeBow, LCSW, CDE, is a diabetes-focused psychotherapist, who has been living with type 1 diabetes since 1977, treats the many diverse cognitive, behavioral, and emotional needs of people living with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
For more information go to his website or Facebook Page or set up a free 30-minute phone consultation to see if talk therapy is right for you.
Medical Disclaimer:
All the advice included in this blog is therapeutic in nature and should not be considered medical advice. Before making any changes to your diabetes maintenance program, please consult with your primary physician or endocrinologist.
Parenting Children with Diabetes 