One of the most difficult things to come to terms with is that diabetes is for life. In the weeks and months after being diagnosed with diabetes emotions are often pushed to one side as you try to get to grips with new treatments and changing your lifestyle. Everyone reacts differently when they hear the news that they have diabetes. You may be initially overwhelmed, shocked, afraid, angry and anxious. Some people go through a stage very similar to mourning - as though they are grieving for lost health. Some people hide these feelings but that doesn't necessarily mean that they are coping without difficulty. Over time it is likely that you will become more confident in your ability to cope with everyday activities and the initial turmoil you may have felt should start to fade. Your healthcare team is there to give you emotional support, reassurance and help you to build your confidence in coping with diabetes. If you, your family, or friends are concerned about any aspect of diabetes, your healthcare team would rather know about it. If the worry is groundless, then you can be reassured. If it has some cause then action can be taken. You can also get a lot of support and encouragement from other people with diabetes - Diabetes UK voluntary groups and Care Support Events gives you the change to hear how others cope in similar situations.
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