Small Ways to Cope

Feeling stressed, sad or angry can be common after a diagnosis. That does not mean you are weak. Stress can make managing diabetes harder.

Start with one task that matters most today. Let the rest wait.

Your care team can suggest more ways to manage stress.

Bindu stands under the sky next to a potted plant. When stressed, a dark cloud named Stress rains and the plant droops. With slow breaths, a calm ring grows and shrinks around Bindu with the words Breathe in and Breathe out, and the clouds thin. Then the sky clears, the sun comes out with the word Calmer and the plant stands up.

A tense moment is hard on the body. Slow breathing may help it feel calmer, like easing off a gas pedal.

Try a few slow breaths when a day feels tense. You can do it anywhere, sitting or standing, with no gear.

Other people can help you feel less alone. A friend or family member can listen while you share how you feel.

A peer group connects people who share your experience. Some meet in person, and some meet online. A start can be as small as a text.

Key takeaways

• Pick one task for today and let the rest wait.
• Slow breathing can help you feel calmer in a tense moment.
• Trusted people and peer groups can help you feel less alone.

Try it

Before your next task, take a few slow breaths, then send a short text to someone you trust.