In Disguises No One Knows

Click here for the Throwback Thursday: What Brings Me Down - Thursday 5/18 Link List
Today let’s revisit a prompt from 2014 - May is Mental Health Month so now seems like a great time to explore the emotional side of living with, or caring for someone with, diabetes. What things can make dealing with diabetes an emotional issue for you and / or your loved one, and how do you cope? (Thanks again to Scott for this 2014 topic.)

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Mental health seems to be a re-occurring theme in my blog. I was going to use the Blooper Post for today, but with the passing of Chris Cornell late last night, I feel like it's an important subject to touch on. 

Diabetes is never the same day to day. I'll be honest, most days I don't even notice it. But, when i am tired, or on the blood sugar roller coaster, stressed, worried about money, being cut off from health insurance, or when I'm sick, the mental stress of it comes to surface in a big hard way. It sucks.  

Sometimes, I just want to break down and cry. And sometimes, I do. I highly advise (for PWDs and Non-PWDs alike) to have a strong therapist around in days when you don't think you can make it. I also recommend lots of deep breaths, screaming, kicking, cuddling with pets, finding art you can do (mine is writing) to take the focus off, and relying on friends and family even when you think you are being a burden. You may not think they want to hear from you, but they much rather want that call than the call to find out you let the stress take your life. 

Forget diabetes for just a second. If you, or someone you know is having problems with mental health, get help now. It's never too early, nor is it ever too late. 

A friend of mine recently found his art is drawing, painting, charcoal, and all kinds of mediums I cannot begin to touch on. He made a card that says, "Take Care. You're the Only You We've Got." It sits next to my window and I see it every day. It reminds me that no matter what life throws at me, I have survived worse. 

If you cannot afford a counselor and you need help, please call 1-800-273-8255. You're too important to let the sad feelings take you out.