Dealing with type one diabetes (T1D) can seem like a constant uphill battle at times, which may affect an individual’s emotional and mental well-being. As a self-managed disease, it can often feel overwhelming to be completely in charge of your own care: managing the high and low blood sugars, interpreting a glucose reading, administering insulin, counting carbs, and so much more. The social and emotional effects that stem from T1D are very real, and can lead individuals to experience burnout, depression, and anxiety. Now more than ever, it’s important to check in on how you are feeling emotionally and mentally, and seek help if you need it.

Warning Signs

Knowing the warning signs of the common mental health issues people with T1D may experience is key to evaluating your own emotional and mental health, and determining if you need to seek help. Three common mental health issues people with T1D deal with are:

• Diabetes Distress: defined as a range of emotional responses to living with and managing diabetes. Although different from depression, diabetes distress shares similar symptoms and is very common for those with T1D . From constantly worrying about disease complications to feeling defeated after a day full of lows, diabetes distress is a completely normal reaction to living with T1D. You can learn more about the emotions and symptoms you may experience, and how to help yourself manage them here.
• Depression: depression is estimated to affect one in four people with diabetes (type 1 and type 2). If you are feeling hopeless, losing interest in activities you used to enjoy, sleeping too little or too much, or experiencing any of these symptoms, you should consider speaking to a mental health professional. Getting treatment for depression early is key and can help to improve your long term medical and psychological outcomes.
• Anxiety: when it comes to dealing with T1D, it’s common to experience some forms of anxiety. However, when the anxiety begins to disrupt your everyday routine or lead to reoccurring panic attacks, it may be time to seek help. If you’re not ready to reach out to a professional, JDRF provides a helpful article on how to build resilience, and in turn, overcome the anxiety or negative feelings you may be experiencing.

While people with T1D may experience these mental health issues, it’s important to note that their caregivers can as well. The best thing you can do for your child, friend, or family member is to check in on how they are doing and offer your support; even if they seem reluctant to talk about their feelings, knowing you are there for them will help them feel more confident in their ability to manage this disease.

You Are Not Alone

You do not need to feel alone in your T1D journey. Sure, each person’s situation is different, but the T1D community is a great place to find support. JDRF provides many resources for T1D’s and their caregivers:

• Community forums: You can connect with people from all over the world who are dealing with T1D in their own way. Exchange information, ask questions, find support, and so much more here.
• One-on-one support: Receiving a T1D diagnosis can be a traumatic and an isolating experience, whether it’s you who is affected or someone you love. Your JDRF Outreach Volunteer can connect you with others in the T1D community who’ve been through similar experiences—and provide you with resources, advice, and support. Make a T1D connection here.
• Local events: Whether you’re looking for support, a chance to volunteer, or an opportunity to hang out with others dealing with T1D, JDRF has you covered. You can find virtual events here. If you’re looking for an in-person meet up, you can discover events with your local JDRF chapter here.

Living with the burden of T1D can be overwhelming at times, but you’re never alone. The JDRF community has your back.