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2. Diabetes and Your Feelings17

“I was always afraid to tell my dates about my diabetes. I used to hide it. I didn’t want them to think I was damaged or that any future with me would be filled with doctors and hospitals. Then, it hit me. I was acting damaged, wasn’t I? I believed that having diabetes was something to be embarrassed about. It is part of me. Just like my red hair. It is who I am—a great lady who just happens to have diabetes. Now, when I date, I don’t flaunt my diabetes, but I don’t hide it either. If I have to take a shot, I pull out my pen and inject right through my clothes. No one even notices. If I need to test my blood glucose level, I whip out my meter quickly and do it. I’ve found that my attitude sets the tone for my date. If I’m relaxed about my diabetes, my date will be, too. If I expect any romance to happen, even simple hug-ging and kissing, I definitely say something or I will worry about it and won’t be able to relax. I don’t want to suddenly have my blood glucose level drop while we are together. And if it does, I want him to understand what the symptoms look like and how he can help me. I just say, “If I look a bit drunk or start to act a little strange, I may be going low, so please get me a glass of juice and I will be back to myself in no time. It doesn’t happen often, so don’t worry.” —Jennifer

Positive Attitude Boosts Confidence

ing diabetes.” According to LeBow, you are likely to have Diabetes Dis-tress if you have some or all of the following symptoms:

You feel sorry for yourself.

You struggle to complete daily diabetes management tasks.

You feel an increased level of frustration and exhaustion.

You check your blood glucose less often or have stopped altogether.

You isolate yourself from family and friends.

You feel depressed and hopeless.

You miss medical appointments.