MIND OVER MATTER
Our health isn't just about our bodies. The way we think about things affects our physical health, and also how we feel and act in certain situations. You probably already know a lot about how diabetes affects your physical health, but what about the thoughts you have about diabetes? How do they affect how you feel?

I Think, Therefore I Feel Struggling through a tough situation can encourage a whole range of unhelpful thoughts that can actually make us feel a lot worse.

• For example, you might sometimes feel self-conscious at work when you need to finger prick, or when you need to take time off for diabetes check-ups. Maybe you think to yourself: "I hope my boss and colleagues don't think I'm slacking off when I stop work or need time off. And I hope they don't treat me differently"

These kinds of thoughts are likely to make you feel self-conscious about having diabetes, as well as anxious and frustrated.

• Another way you might think about the same situation could be something like this: "It's so important for me to manage my diabetes. If I think my boss doesn't understand then I may need to talk with her about it. People are often very supportive when I tell them I have diabetes. I can manage this."

Thinking along these lines might help you to feel more relaxed and able to communicate your current, as well as any future concerns.