Diabetes and Wellbeing: Managing the Psychological and Emotional Challenges of Diabetes Types 1 and 2

The psychological impact of dealing with the stress of the daily management of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes can be frustrating and challenging. Yet this area is rarely discussed in medical settings despite the fact that the emotional context can undermine the person’s ability to stay motivated in the essential self–care tasks that are vital for good health. Diabetes and Wellbeing presents a range of research–based psychological principles that have been demonstrated to positively impact emotional wellbeing. It covers a broad spectrum of diabetes care from managing the initial diagnosis, overcoming depression and diabetes ‘burnout’, dealing effectively with fears and anxiety, managing food and weight issues and eating disorders, coping with the impact of sexual difficulties, and communicating with healthcare professionals. Jen Nash effectively guides the reader through strategies  for better management of the issues associated with living with diabetes, moving individuals towards greater physical and psychological wellbeing and – as a result – a healthier future. This innovative yet practical guide is invaluable for individuals living with diabetes, those supporting others with diabetes, and healthcare professionals involved in the care of patients with diabetes.

Acknowledgements vi 1 Introduction 1 2 Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Diabetes 11 3 Dealing with Diagnosis 23 4 Depression, Low Mood and Burnout 49 5 Managing Fear, Anxiety and Worry 80 6 Managing Food,Weight and Emotions 109 7 Diabetes and Relationships 152 8 Implementing Change 185 9 Managing Setbacks, Staying Solution–Focused and Embracing Mindfulness 205 10 Recommended Resources 218 Index 223

Dr. Jen Nash in a Clinical Psychologist living with diabetes since childhood. She is the founder and director of Positive Diabetes ( www.PositiveDiabetes.com ), an international service– providing therapy, education and training services to promote the psychological wellbeing of people living with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. She is also a keynote speaker for national diabetes charities, trainer for NHS professionals, consultant to leading diabetes pharmaceutical companies, and co–author of My Sweet Life: Successful Women with Diabetes (2011).

“This book is written to be read in its entirety and is a good addition to the current literature on the psychology of diabetes. It will support many of the web–based learning facilities that are available to patients and healthcare professionals.”  ( Diabetes Update , 1 October 2013)