It's essential to manage stress no matter what you are dealing with health-wise, but if you are living with diabetes, it's vital to do what you can to reduce your stress levels and manage your existing stress. One of the reasons is that how your body responds to stress could increase your risk for diabetes complications. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, we are living in especially stressful times, so we have a few tips for you on how to manage your stress.

1.Educate yourself about diabetes and talk with your healthcare team.

One source of stress is not having enough information about diabetes. The more you learn, the better you will be able to manage. Whether you have questions or fears, talk with your healthcare team. Meet with a Certified Diabetes Care Education Specialist (CDCES) to get the latest information on how to manage your diabetes as an individual. Consider joining a support group to gain insight from other's experiences.

2. Identify – and manage - areas of stress in your life.

You may be struggling with several stressors in your life. First, you will want to pinpoint some of the most intense areas of stress. For example, you may be having a hard time with mental stress and keeping away negative thoughts. In that case, consider starting each day with a mediation exercise. You may also be struggling with emotional stress. In that case, make sure you find moments where you can be by yourself and focus on calming yourself down. Other stress may be physical, family-related, or work-related. Once you've identified the area, the best thing you can do is work on managing and limiting that amount of stress. Sometimes that may be setting boundaries around what you are saying yes to and speaking up when you need help.

3. Get meals and medications organized.

One way you can manage your stress better is by getting your medications organized. Pillboxes can be incredibly helpful and can make taking your pills to become a routine. Also, as you incorporate healthy eating, meal planning a week – or more – in advance can save you stress in the grocery store. Even, speak up to family about needing their support to stay on track with your health. Make it a family meal plan rather than one just for yourself. The support of others can make managing diabetes far easier.

Remember, you don't have to handle diabetes by yourself. Speak up to family members, reach out to a support group, and discuss any concerns you have with your medical support team.