It is winter and we are in the midst of the holiday season. A time for joy. A time for togetherness with loved ones. A time of giving and being gracious. So many pleasures wrapped up in just a few short months. Let's be honest though, the holiday season can be a very stressful time. This stress is often heightened for those of us dealing with chronic illnesses of any nature. I thought it would be important to talk about some ways to help lower the stress level throughout the season so that we may all enjoy the moments we share.
Since diabetes is such a prevalent disease in our nation and across the world right now I believe this is a good place to start. Stress affects Type I and Type II diabetics very differently and yet still has a great affect on the control of one's blood sugar levels. Both Type I's as well as Type II's are cautioned to keep stress levels low in an effort to maintain some sort of balance with blood sugar levels. I found a very useful link pertaining particularly to diabetics that is very useful http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/complications/stress.html
Not only can the information on this sight be useful for diabetics, it has information that we can all use across the board.
For those of use with food restrictions such as Celiac Disease, Diabetes, or food allergies there are some quick easy ways to make your holiday season even brighter. Often times going outside of your own home to eat with diet restrictions is very difficult. Many hosts don't know of possible food allergies or diet restrictions of their guests. Plus, it is difficult for any host who is not accustomed to your specifications to try to accommodate. I have found for myself, because my digestive system is so sensitive and my symptoms can become debilitating quickly, it is easier for me to eat beforehand. That way I can casually sip a drink or just enjoy the company at the outing. Another thing I like to do is prepare a meal before, preferably an easy one or left overs, and pack them to go with me. I may get a few looks or a question or two, but I just politely answer with whatever information I am willing to divulge.
I have found that it is important to focus on the moment. Not only do I say this for the enjoyment of the moment, but also to prevent feeling overwhelmed. No one person around you is going to understand your perspective of the world or how difficult the holidays can be for someone with a chronic illness. Do not let their opinions or lack of knowledge influence how you take care of yourself while still being included in traditions. It is easy to get caught up in what is going on around you, and you should, but remember who is number one.
A routine is something health professionals as well as mental health professionals emphasize as a stress reducer. Throughout the holiday season a routine is nearly impossible to stick to, and yet with a chronic illness it is often important in the management of your disease. With travel and feasts and traditions this can be difficult. Do not beat yourself up over a few indulgences or strays from your daily routine. Do your best with what you have around you and be proud of your efforts.
Most important remember how badly you feel when managing your disease gets out of whack. Many diseases, in a state of stress, get exacerbated. When this happens and you don't feel like yourself, it leads to irritability, fatigue, and opens your body up to risks of complications from whatever you may be suffering. This, in itself, should be a motivator to keep you on track, let you loosen up enough to enjoy yourself, and that will allow you to not become overwhelmed.
This is a time of joy and excitement. This is a time to remember how grateful we are to have one another. This is not a time for our disease to control us. Just like a rope is woven with many strands, our disease is only one strand of the rope that makes us who we are- STRONG.
No comments:
Post a Comment