DIABETIC CARE

As an insulin-dependent diabetic of almost 40 years, I am well aware of the problems that people with this disease face on a daily basis. Psychotherapy can be a very useful resource in diabetic care. There are at least two ways it can help. First, a person with diabetes (as is the case for anyone with a chronic illness) has been handed something that makes their life harder in a variety of ways. It affects self-esteem and relationships. In a sense, there is some form of grief to work through. Many people with diabetes have to find a way to cope with resentment and anger, as unacknowledged and unresolved anger can be a tremendous obstacle to self-care and living a quality life. Counseling and psychotherapeutic services can help a person understand and work through those feelings. Secondly, the counseling relationship can helps serve as a point of stability when a diabetic finds it difficult to perform necessary self-care in regard to medication use, diet, exercise and stress management. Especially useful in this regard is hypnosis (click here to view more information about hypnosis), which can be an excellect tool for aligning a person's conscious intentions and unconscious resources.

A few sessions of hypnotherapy to deal with obstacles is very helpful in the full range of diabetic health care. Feel free to call or regarding your needs.

DIABETES

Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. The cause of diabetes is a mystery, although both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to play roles. There are two major types of diabetes:

Type 1 - A disease in which the body does not produce any insulin, most often occurring in children and young adults. People with Type 1 diabetes must take daily insulin injections to stay alive. Type 1 diabetes accounts for 5 to 10 percent of diabetes. For more information click here.

Type 2 - A metabolic disorder resulting from the body's inability to make enough, or properly use, insulin. It is the most common form of the disease. Type 2 diabetes accounts for 90 to 95 percent of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is nearing epidemic proportions, due to an increased number of older Americans, and a greater prevalence of obesity and sedentary lifestyles. For more information click here.

Because uncontrolled diabetes can cause major health problems, such as amputation or blindness, keep your blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible. In addition to taking your diabetes medications, you can have a positive influence on your blood sugar and your health by choosing foods wisely, staying active and reducing your stress level.
You can subscribe to the ADA's Diabetes Forecast magazine by clicking here.

(from the website of the American Diabetes Association)