Across the world, many people are now experiencing a new kind of
freedom. As the incidence of COVID-19 in some countries has fallen,
lockdown life is starting to ease. For some, this means that life is
beginning to feel less restricted, however this can bring about
another unique set of challenges when living with a chronic disease
such as diabetes.
It is always important to take care of yourself and your diabetes
first, and in this article we will look at some practical support to
manage new feelings and emotions to help minimise the impact on your
mental and physical wellbeing.
Many countries are starting to embrace the easing of lockdown
restrictions, but this can lead to new challenges for managing your diabetes.
Perhaps you had adjusted and become comfortable with how best to
keep well during lockdown, despite the monotony of living, working and
studying within the same four walls. But then, life changes again and
this brings its own psychological impacts. You may find that you are
feeling anxious or worried as the restrictions begin to lift and
society begins to interact again.
These emotions are common at any time of significant change.
Increases in fear, anxiety, and feelings of low mood or a lack in
motivation can be some of the changes you may notice at one point or
another. However, there are things you can do to help manage and
reduce these feelings while still taking reasonable steps to protect
yourself from the potential risks of becoming ill due to COVID-19.
You can hear Sara Mobäck (Global Diabetes Advocate living with Type 1
Diabetes in Sweden) and Professor Tim Skinner (Diabetes and Health
Psychologist in Australia) talk about the
challenges people with diabetes are facing as the lockdown
restrictions are eased.
There is also lots of useful content on Diabetes What’s Next,
including articles on dealing
with stress and feeling
anxious that you may find interesting, as well as this interview
with Dr. Frank Snoek if you are finding life under lockdown is
affecting your mental wellbeing.
If you are having difficulties in controlling your blood sugar
levels, it’s important to speak to your doctor or nurse. They can
offer tips and advice, or they may need to adjust your medication(s).
This is general disease awareness and should not be understood as
medical advice. If you experience symptoms of COVID-19 or have
questions, doubts or concerns, you should contact your doctor. Always
follow the advice of local authorities.
In this article you will find links to third-party material not
owned or controlled by Novo Nordisk. We are not responsible for the
content or the accuracy of the information provided and have no
control over the privacy policies or terms of use of such third-party sites.