What can be done?

While my wonderful counterparts in allopathic medicine sometimes struggle in this area, providers in naturopathic medicine shine. A cornerstone of naturopathic care to take a wholistic approach to ensure that we take into account the physical, mental, emotional, and even spiritual sides of our patients.

I like to start by telling my diabetic patients to give themselves grace. Sometimes enjoying holiday food with our family fills our soul and is more important that a perfect A1c. Finding balance, support, and self-acceptance with our diabetes can be just as important as careful blood sugar management. In my humble experience, I find that loving ourselves, diabetes and all, is a huge part of giving ourselves the long-term care we deserve and preventing diabetes related fatigue.

Another aspect of treating “diapression” is directly discussing emotional health with my patients and not avoiding emotions like some doctors may do. I’ve been trained in counseling techniques so that I can support my patients in their challenges beyond just managing the physical aspects of diabetes alone. I also work closely with my colleagues in counseling and mental health so that I can provide a cohesive team for creating a network of support. You do not have to do it alone!

Additionally, I talk with my patients about vitamins and nutrients that can be depleted with long term diabetes medications. Did you know that long term use of metformin, one of our first line treatments for type 2 diabetes, can result in a decrease in vitamin B12? This vitamin is vital for metabolism and as a cofactor for the synthesis and breakdown of our neurotransmitters, which help stabilize and regulate mood. Other nutrients like chromium are essential for allowing glucose to be optimally taken into the cells and can improve diabetes numbers with the correct dosing. While some of this can be accomplished with a great diet, other patients may need to supplement especially when our diet is lacking. This balance is where I step in to help educate and provide the best supplemental advice tailored to each specific patient and their individual needs.

This is just a starting place of the options available to diabetic patients that I love to provide. As a naturopath, the wholistic care that we provide can make a meaningful difference in the emotional and physiological impact of diabetes. Because diabetes is something that we live with every day I encourage every patient to keep their emotional health a strong priority; your body will appreciate the care and your diabetes will likely also see improved blood sugar results.

Just because no one else can heal or do your inner work for you, doesn’t mean you can, should, or need to do it alone. -Lisa Olivera