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Emotional Health and T1D
Living with type 1 diabetes is constant. It is not only a physical challenge, but there is a significant emotional component that is often overlooked in traditional healthcare.
In episode #13 of Around the Circle: Living Well with T1D, “What the World Still Hasn’t Heard About Emotional Health and T1D,” Dr. Bill Polonsky, President & Co-Founder of the Behavioral Diabetes Institute, and a diabetes psychologist, explains that this emotional strain, known as diabetes distress, is a normal part of managing diabetes.
What Is Diabetes Distress?
Diabetes distress is the ongoing pressure of living with and managing diabetes.
It often comes from:
- Daily decision-making
- Fear about long-term health
- Cost and access challenges
- Feeling unsupported
- Frustration when results are unpredictable
Most people with type 1 diabetes experience this at some point.
Why It Matters
Diabetes distress can make diabetes harder to manage.
It can be linked to:
- Higher A1C
- Lower time in range
- Burnout or disengagement
It is also often mistaken for depression, but it is different and needs diabetes-specific support.
Signs to Watch For
You may be experiencing diabetes distress if you feel:
- Worn down by daily care
- Less motivated to manage diabetes
- Frustrated or overwhelmed
- Like you want a break from it all
These reactions are normal and completely understandable.
What Helps
One of the most important steps is simple.
Do not do diabetes alone.
Support can come from:
- Peer connection with others who have type 1 diabetes
- Conversations with your healthcare team
- Community groups or programs
You can also use the free tool at diabetesdistress.org to better understand your stress and start more focused conversations.
You Do Not Have To Do This Alone
Feeling overwhelmed by diabetes is common. The right support can make it more manageable.
Blue Circle Health offers free, virtual care, education, and emotional support for adults with type 1 diabetes.
Learn more at bluecirclehealth.org
Final Takeaway
Diabetes distress is common and real. With support and connection, it becomes easier to manage.
