I was afraid when I was first told I had diabetes. or furious. or perhaps even inspired. But for the most part? I was exhausted. I’m sick of trying to decide what to eat. I’m sick of Googling symptoms at two in the morning. I was sick of acting like I was fine when I wasn’t.
The first month was a flurry of appointments, figures, and feelings I couldn’t quite put my finger on. But now that I’ve got some breathing room, I wanted to share what I’ve discovered! not as an expert, but as a person trying his hardest.
Lesson 1: Blood Sugar Is a Rollercoaster — and That’s Okay
I used to believe that if I followed the rules, I would get it “right.” However, blood sugar is a living, breathing being rather than a mathematical problem. It is impacted by stress. It is impacted by sleep. Hormones influence it. Indeed, eating has an impact on it as well, though not necessarily in the way I anticipate.
I’ve discovered that it’s better to focus on trends rather than striving for perfection. That has been far more beneficial than berating myself for each increase.
Lesson 2: Food Is Emotional
It wasn’t until I had to reconsider how much solace I found in food. Every meal felt like a test all of a sudden. I was saddened by that. As if I were losing something.
However, I’ve begun to view meals as acts of kindness rather than punishment. Making a tasty breakfast that is diabetic-friendly seems like a small gesture of self-love.
Lesson 3: Mental Health Matters More Than I Thought
I thought diabetes was just physical. But the emotional side? Whew. It’s heavy. There have been days when I felt hopeless. There were times when I sobbed over toast. There were days when I wanted to give up and eat anything I wanted to feel normal once more.
However, I’ve also experienced moments of pride. where I made decisions that seemed to be in line with recovery. This is where I realized that progress isn’t linear, and that’s alright.
Lesson 4: Creative Calm Is Medicine
Diamond art painting has been my saving grace. Sitting down with a canvas and applying one little glittering drill at a time helps me refocus when my mind is racing. It’s silent. It’s calming. I own it.
I never imagined that a craft would help me control my diabetes, but here we are.
Lesson 5: I’m Allowed to Be Messy
There’s a reason this site is named MoodyMessyHungry. I am all of those things. And I’m coming to terms with that. I don’t have to be the ideal diabetic. I don’t need to know everything. One meal, one moment, one dazzling little drill at a time.
Remember that you are not alone if you have recently received a diagnosis or are simply feeling overwhelmed. The first month is challenging. However, it’s also the start of something lovely. You are free to be moody. You are free to be untidy. You are free to be hungry for joy, consolation, or healing.
Additionally, you are free to take your time.