5 Things I Would Tell Someone Recently Diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes

A new diagnosis can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. The Bezzy T2D community is here to help.

As of 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that more than 10 percent of Americans live with diabetes and nearly a third of all American adults have pre-diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes is far more common than type 1 diabetes, and it accounts for nearly 90 percent of all global diabetes cases.

While type 2 diabetes cannot be cured, it can be managed through diet and lifestyle changes. However, for many, receiving a type 2 diabetes diagnosis may be the first time they’ve had to face significant health changes. This prospect can feel daunting.

Even though type 2 diabetes is very common, a new diagnosis may make you feel alone.

It can feel isolating, as though your friends and family members just don’t understand what you’re going through. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone.

The Bezzy T2D community is filled with people who truly understand what you’re going through, because they’ve been there themselves.

Five community members shared their words of wisdom for people navigating a new type 2 diabetes diagnosis.

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You’ve got this

“As we say in the South, ‘It ain’t nothing but a chicken wing.’ You can get out in front of this. It’s shocking at first. Once you make lifestyle changes, and they become routine, then it becomes second nature.

You may be fine for many years, and some people even go into remission. Just think about the millions who are unaware or don’t care. You’re that much further ahead of millions. Now it’s time to get busy living.“ – Robert Ward

Take it one day at a time

“It definitely can be overwhelming. Just stop and take a big deep breath.

It’s going to be OK. It’ll require some work on your part, but nothing you can’t handle. I would first recommend seeing a dietitian to help you figure out what you should be eating.

In the meantime, work on eating healthy low-carb meals and snacks. Try to get some exercise and drink plenty of water. There’s definitely a lot of information available on the [Bezzy T2D], and you can ask questions. The people here are always here to help. Take it one day at a time.” – Brian D.

Lean on the support of others

“When first diagnosed, it was overwhelming for me. And with help from the [Bezzy T2D] group, doctors, and my own reading, diabetes is manageable.

For me, a continuous commitment to healthy eating and exercise has also helped.” – Cal90

Focus on your mental health

“I was overwhelmed at first. I definitely had anxiety about the diagnosis (in addition to other things). A nurse practitioner suggested I see a psychiatrist, which I never would have thought to do.

You have to try to look for positives. It can help to see all the success stories on the [Bezzy T2D] community from people who struggled at first and have made truly incredible progress.

Some calming tricks can help, too. Whether it’s some kind of meditation, relaxation, or essential oils, they can help you through the adjustment and minimize the stress of it.” – Chris

You will get used to your new ‘normal’

“I’m 3 months in and have made a lot of changes to my diet.

Don’t worry. After a few weeks of making changes, you’ll start getting used to it and not feel like the new diet is such a big change. Adding lots of veggies can help you stay full.

Think creatively of different ways to add them in: roasted, steamed, raw, soup, and more!” – Cherie Jordan

The bottom line

Facing a new type 2 diabetes diagnosis may feel challenging, but it’s a challenge you can handle.

With time, you’ll find new routines that work for you, and you’ll start to feel more confident in your ability to manage your health.

Especially at the beginning, it may feel like you have a lot to learn, and you probably have many questions. The Bezzy T2D community is here for guidance and support every step of the way.

Article originally appeared on June 24, 2021 on Bezzy’s sister site, Healthline. Last fact checked on June 21, 2021.