5 steps to help with diabetic burnout

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Burnout is common among people with diabetes

<http://www.diabeteshealth.com/> , especially those who have had the disease

for years, even decades. Diabetes management can be exhausting, confusing,

and frustrating, particularly when you think you are doing everything right

but your blood

<http://www.diabeteshealth.com/browse/monitoring/blood-sugar/> sugars still

fail to cooperate.

We've all heard the saying, " When the going gets tough, the tough get

going. " In terms of diabetes, this means recognizing that the same old

routine isn't always going to combat diabetes, a disease that never ceases

to throw us a curve ball.

When you find yourself in a negative and harmful rut, it's time to

re-evaluate your management plan and make positive changes that will propel

your disease into a calmer and more predictable season, one that will no

doubt yield more energy and less frustration. To get started, ask yourself

questions in the following five areas.

Medication

Make a list of the medications and dosages that you're taking. How long have

you been on these medications and taken the same dosages? Are there newer

medications on the market or alternative treatments that might help your

management? What medications might you no longer need? Which ones might

require an increased dose? These are all good questions to discuss with your

doctor.

Exercise <http://www.diabeteshealth.com/browse/fitness/exercise/>

Are you exercising? How often? How long? Is there another type of exercise

you should be doing? Do you enjoy the exercise you've chosen? If not, what

are the alternatives? If you are not exercising, what is hindering you from

doing so? Again, bring your questions to the attention of your doctor and

see what he or she suggests.

Diet

What do you eat that gives you energy and helps you maintain healthy blood

sugars? What are you eating that hinders your diabetes management? Are you

eating often enough? Too often? How are your portion sizes? What food groups

are you neglecting? Are you staying hydrated throughout the day? If you

haven't already, establish a relationship with a registered dietitian who

will help you navigate changes in your diet.

Sleep

Are you sleeping too much? Not enough? What about your quality of sleep? How

comfortable is your bed? Is your bedroom noisy? Too light? Too dark? Are you

taking medications that might be interrupting your sleep? How are your blood

sugars when you sleep? Ask your doctor to refer you to a sleep specialist

for advice and answers.

Doctors

How do you feel when you are with your doctor? Nervous? Relieved? Fearful?

Discouraged? Encouraged? Think about the people on your diabetes care team

and decide where changes need to be made. The caregivers who guide you

through your diabetes journey should be knowledgeable, personable,

experienced, honest, and encouraging. If you are not getting your needs met,

begin searching for a new doctor.

By addressing these five areas and taking your disease by the reins, you

will no doubt be on your way to a happier and healthier tomorrow.

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