The announcement of the diagnosis of diabetes is a key moment, which can provoke a mixture of emotions, ranging from shock to a feeling of relief in the face of finally understanding one’s condition. It marks, in fact, the end of doubts and the beginning of adaptation to a new reality, impacting emotional, social and professional life.
The announcement: a key moment
The diagnosis of diabetes can be experienced as a shock or an ordeal, depending on how it is announced. This moment often marks the end of a period of medical uncertainty and the beginning of a new stage of life, in which it is essential to adapt to the management of the disease. The path that led you to this announcement may have been long, punctuated by symptoms, consultations, searches for information and interpretations of signs. In some cases, the diagnosis even occurs during screening, making this announcement even more disconcerting. Know that this new step, although difficult, can be taken with the right support and resources.
Emotional and social consequences
Being diagnosed with diabetes can be a particularly emotionally difficult time. It’s natural to feel waves of stress, anxiety, and even confusion in the face of this new reality. However, for some people, there can also be a sense of relief, bringing peace in finally understanding the cause of previously unexplained symptoms. These emotions, although complex and sometimes contradictory, are a normal reaction to such a significant life change. To this emotional journey is often added a social dimension: the need to rely on loved ones or patient associations, who can offer a space for listening and support to help manage these new emotions and do better. facing daily challenges. The announcement of the diagnosis can also have repercussions on your family, social and professional life, because adjustments are necessary in the relationships with your family circle and but also with your employer and your colleagues. Family relationships can also be affected, with your loved ones themselves being torn between worry and the desire to support you.
Acceptance: a personal but also social process
Everyone experiences the news of their diabetes in a personal way, and the acceptance process can take time. It is important not to minimize the emotions felt and to actively seek social support. Those close to you, whether family or friends, as well as patient associations and peer groups, can play a valuable role in supporting you during this transition period. This support network can offer listening, advice and sharing of experiences, essential for overcoming initial difficulties and reducing feelings of isolation. Taking the time to embrace this new reality, surrounded by this support, is crucial to moving forward with confidence in this new chapter of your life.
The importance of medical support
It’s true, being diagnosed with diabetes can be a source of confusion and distress, because of the changes you have to make in your lifestyle or the discovery of a new treatment to take regularly. But it’s essential to remember that as someone now living with diabetes, you are not alone. Health professionals (treating doctor, diabetologist, nurse, pharmacist) or mental health professionals (psychiatrist or psychologist) are there to provide you with personalized support and help you understand and cope with this new reality. These professionals are present and will be able to meet your needs. Health professionals will be able to help you understand diabetes and its implications, while mental health professionals will be there to support your journey towards acceptance and living with diabetes.
Being diagnosed with diabetes can be a shock or a difficult time to go through. It also marks the beginning of a new path in life. Each person experiences this stage differently. Medical and social support is there to accompany him in this adaptation process. The Federation provides you with various resources which you will find below to answer many questions such as: what is diabetes? How to learn to live with it? What support solutions are offered by the Federation? What are the legal impacts of diabetes on my life?
You are not alone!
Find the full article on the Diabète LAB website.
Check out our resources: