Diabetes and denial often go hand-in-hand. The problem is that denial can complicate diabetes. Learn how to confront denial head-on.
If you are like many people with diabetes, you might not be willing to accept the diagnosis. Your doctor might have told you that if you do not keep your blood sugar within normal range, it could result in severe complications like kidney failure and amputations. Maybe you’re thinking “those things won’t happen to me.” These thoughts indicate that you are in denial.
Denial is common among people who have type 2 diabetes. Diabetes involves making significant lifestyle changes, such as constant blood sugar testing, exercise, a restricted diet, and daily medications. These changes often include a host of new habits that can be quite overwhelming. You don’t have the same freedoms as you had before. It is natural to experience some reluctance to follow-through especially when you feel fine.
The problem is that diabetes wreaks havoc on the body. You may not notice the damage for many, many years — but it is still occurring. The chance of developing complications like nerve damage, kidney damage, amputations, and blindness can all be significantly reduced by getting blood sugar levels under control.
Signs Of Denial
Here are some of the symptoms of diabetes denial:
Not testing your blood sugar – Regular blood glucose testing can be painful and irritating. The problem is that if you are not regularly checking your blood glucose, then you will not know if your blood glucose levels are within a normal range.
Not taking medications – It can be a pain to take diabetes pills or insulin shots every day. However, if you have diabetes, these medications are essential. They can help regulate your blood sugars and prevent complications.
Ignoring your diet – It is difficult to change meal habits. Your dietician may recommend a diet that is much different than what you currently eat now. The good news is that once you start developing healthy diet habits, it is easy to stick with them.
Not exercising – Physical activity is an integral part of diabetes management. Exercise can help prevent heart problems, which are common in diabetes. It can also help you keep blood glucose levels in check.