A lot of people with Type 2 diabetes—about 2 out of 3—deal with high stress. Managing diabetes can be tough, and it can make stress levels shoot up. But, there’s good news. Joining a backed by science and proven to work can make a big difference. These programs can help you manage stress, which is important for managing your diabetes.
What’s Stress All About?
Stress is when you feel all wound up or worried about something. It might be a quick worry, like getting nervous over a work thing or speaking in front of people. Or it could be from bigger stuff, like being sick, having money troubles, or losing someone close to you. Stress can mess with you in many ways, making you feel bad all over.
How Stress and Diabetes Mix
1. Blood Sugar Levels Rise
– Stress makes your body release certain hormones, like cortisol, which can make your heart race and make you need more energy. So, your body puts more sugar in your blood.
2. You Might Gain Weight
– Long-term stress can lead to gaining weight, especially around your belly. That’s because cortisol makes you hungry, especially for snacks that aren’t good for you.
3. Your Body Might Use Insulin Wrong
– When you’re stressed for a long time, your body might not use insulin the right way anymore. Insulin is what keeps your blood sugar steady. If your body can’t use it right, your blood sugar can get too high.
4. Sleep Problems
– Stress can make it hard to sleep well. Not getting enough sleep can mess with how your body handles sugar, which can make diabetes worse.
5. Bad Habits Kick In
– High stress might lead you to not-so-great habits, like eating junk food, skipping workouts, smoking, or drinking too much. These can make managing diabetes harder.
Can Stress Lead to Diabetes?
Scientists are still looking into this. But they do know that stress can up your chances of getting Type 2 diabetes. Stress can make your body’s insulin-making process go haywire or lead to overeating and weight gain.
Not All Stress is the Same
Not every type of stress is bad. Even things that should be happy, like getting married or moving, can stress you out. If you’re at risk for diabetes or already have it, keep an eye on your blood sugar when life gets hectic.
Diabetes Can Be Stressful Too
Just having diabetes can be a lot to handle, making you feel stressed out. Studies show that a lot of people with Type 2 diabetes feel overwhelmed by the daily tasks of managing their condition, like eating right, staying active, taking meds, and checking blood sugar. Worrying about low blood sugar can also stress you out.
So, finding a good diabetes care program that’s all about science and real results can help you handle stress better, enhancing your diabetes treatment experience. This is key for taking good care of your diabetes and feeling your best.
