-
Be aware of the current situation.
This first step seems quite simple, although in practice it is the most difficult. Ask for help (even if you do not have very close relatives or friends) and give yourself the opportunity to feel and understand all aspects of this syndrome.
It’s no secret that many of you are completely focused on the needs of diabetes treatment. Following the doctor’s recommendations and following the instructions of loved ones, you forget to listen to your feelings. The first step is to understand the situation. Allow yourself to freely express your emotions, whatever they may be.
Give yourself time to deal with burnout. The main thing is not to forget to keep your blood sugar level in a safe (and not necessarily ideal) range, take sugar-lowering drugs (Forxiga, Glyciphage) and take care of your health. Remember that everyone with diabetes should relax at least once a month and realize that they are tired of diabetes. This will be a huge push to normalize the situation. Spending time with family will give a lot of positive emotions, will fight drowsiness, irritability and helplessness.
-
Set the time for which you plan to get rid of the syndrome.
The second step is to create a realistic plan to overcome the syndrome. Ask yourself, “How long do I have to fight burnout?” By developing a plan, you will be able to better plan your diabetes treatment.
If you are a busy parent, try asking someone else to do the housework for a while. This will help you gain the strength to return to your former life. If you are studying at university and have two jobs, you may have to slow down. Limit yourself for a while to studying and taking care of your health. Think about your life, imagine what could change, and try to find a balance.
-
Set realistic goals for nutrition and exercise.
One of the main reasons why people with diabetes develop burnout is the constant need for proper nutrition and exercise.
Of course, you should not expect to instantly turn from an emotionally devastated person suffering from diabetes into a supporter of a healthy lifestyle. But when you are ready to change, promise to do something new that will have a positive effect on your health. For example, take a walk during the lunch break or go to the gym immediately after work. Let it be something simple but concrete. In a month or two, take the time to add another new habit.
-
Set realistic goals for your blood sugar.
The idea of introducing a new, simple and specific habit will also be useful for controlling blood sugar. Think about what you can do to improve your current efforts. For example, check your blood sugar every morning immediately after waking up. Also, be more careful when choosing your insulin dose after dinner so that your blood sugar is within the desired range during sleep.
In a month or two, when you are ready, add another useful habit. Most importantly, do not hesitate to seek medical help. If you do not like one doctor, contact another.