Hang in There

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

• 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.
  

Get diabetes support

• 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, getting through hard times, and solving problems.
  
• Teach your family and friends about type 2 diabetes. Ask them to listen to what you think and feel, and support you in making some healthy changes. For instance, they may want to exercise with you.
  
• Stay in touch with your doctors between appointments. You may want to talk on the phone or fax your blood sugar records. This will help you and your doctor spot any problems early.
  
• Join a support group for people with type 2 diabetes. It always helps to talk with people who’ve been there.