8 tips for overcoming personal obstacles

Sooner or later, you're bound to run into your own hurdles when it comes to taking good care of your diabetes. They simply come with the territory. The trick is to set yourself up to fly over them so you don't end up face-down on the track.

Anyone who's sleep-deprived copes badly with challenges.

• If you're well rested, you'll be more resilient and better able to face the issues that come your way with an "I can handle this" attitude.

Look for one on the specific issue you're having trouble with, such as using an insulin pump, or go to a general diabetes class if that's all that's available and ask your questions there.

Remember, you are far from alone in this battle. There are three million Canadians who have diabetes. Take advantage of it.

Studies show that people who have support are more resistant to the damage of stress than those who go it alone.

• Ask your doctor, check at your local hospital or search online for a local support group. You'll find plenty of people who've faced similar obstacles and found solutions.

Many people with type 2 diabetes will need insulin if they live with the disease long enough.

• Having a conversation with your doctor before he needs to pull out the big gun can help allay your fears.

It isn't really the insulin or the needles that scare most people; it's what they stand for — a worsening of this progressive disease.

If your doctor does suggest insulin, it's probably because your blood sugars are too high. Insulin helps you regain control and can improve your health immensely.

• Discuss your fears with your doctor at your next appointment, and find out what his guidelines are for when he will suggest insulin.

Don't be afraid to troubleshoot with your doctor about problems you're having.

• Do you feel like your diabetes medication is causing you to gain weight?
• Weight gain is indeed a side effect of some diabetes drugs. Your doctor might be able to switch you to another.

• If you dread being asked about why you won't eat cake or drink alcohol, you feel that you can't ask the doctor the questions you want answered, or you have an overbearing family member you don't know how to confront, practise how you'll handle the situation next time with a close friend or a counsellor.

This way you can fine-tune your approach before you have to use it.

Ignorance is not bliss, especially for people with diabetes. When your blood sugar fluctuates wildly, or you get dizzy for no apparent reason, it can be scary.

• Talk to your doctor or certified diabetes educator about what could be causing the problem and what you can do to fix it.

Sticking to a healthy eating plan can be a challenge for many people.

• If you are struggling with food, ask your doctor for a referral to a registered dietitian.
• This expert will analyze how you are eating, help you pinpoint your pitfalls and offer suggestions for healthier meals and strategies to overcome temptations.

You're not alone. These eight tips can help you overcome the inevitable obstacles and questions you'll encounter as you take care of your diabetes.