Living with diabetes means managing more than just blood glucose (blood sugar)—it’s about caring for your whole self. Between balancing daily tasks, decisions about your health, and life’s everyday stresses, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Taking small steps can help you feel more confident and improve your wellbeing. Here are four tips to support your physical, mental, and emotional health.
1. Show yourself compassion.
Diabetes is a 24/7 condition, and no one manages it perfectly all the time. Instead of labeling days as “good” or “bad,” try shifting your thinking. Every experience—whether expected or not—is a chance to learn, not a measure of success or failure. If something doesn’t go as planned, whether it’s a routine change, a blood glucose reading that surprises you, or an unexpected challenge, offer yourself the same kindness you would give to a friend.
2. Make small, meaningful changes.
Making changes to your routine doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Changes you can stick to often start with small steps. For example, if you’re looking to make changes to your eating habits, try adding a vegetable to one meal a day rather than making big changes all at once. If you want to move more, choose an activity that you can do and feels fun. For some, this may mean walking or stretching, while for others, it could be dancing for exercise or light movement at home. Every bit of movement counts and improves not just physical health, but mental wellbeing too!
3. Find the right support for you.
You don’t have to manage diabetes on your own. Support comes in many forms and finding what works for you is key. Some may find support through family or friends, while others connect with diabetes support groups, online communities, or their health care team. If direct support isn’t available, even small actions—like reading about the experiences of others or using positive self-talk (reminding yourself of your strengths and efforts)—can help lift your mood and reduce stress. What matters is knowing you don’t have to do this alone.
4. Prioritize what brings you joy.
When managing diabetes, it’s easy to focus on what you “should” be doing. But making time for activities that bring you joy—whether it’s playing music, painting, gardening, spending time in nature, or simply resting—can help reduce stress and improve your overall wellbeing. Doing what makes you happy is just as important as any other part of self-care.
You Got This!
Caring for yourself isn’t about perfection, it’s about progress. By showing yourself compassion, making small changes, seeking support in a way that works for you, and prioritizing activities that bring you joy, you’re taking meaningful steps toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Don’t forget to check out more diabetes-friendly management tips on Diabetes Food Hub.
Ryan Tweet, PsyD, is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and member of the ADA Nutrition and Wellness Advisory Group. He is also an Assistant Professor and Director of Behavioral Health at the Oregon Health & Science University's Harold Schnitzer Diabetes Center.