RESEARCH indicates that nearly half of all adults with diabetes will experience mental health challenges. This National Diabetes Week, Marathon Health's Diabetes Educators are spreading awareness of the relationship between diabetes and mental health.
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Diabetes Week kicks off across Australia on July 12 and continues until July 18, with a focus on the link between the condition and mental health issues, including diabetes distress, anxiety and burnout.
Health educators say adjusting to, and coping with the lifestyle changes that accompany diabetes is stressful and can, over time, increase the risk of developing anxiety disorders or depression.
Marija Bindley, Marathon Health Diabetes Educator, says getting support for diabetes management is a great way to begin to manage everyday stress.
"Managing chronic conditions on a daily basis can take its toll on anyone. It's normal for clients to sometimes feel a little overwhelmed and frustrated but that's why the support team plays such a crucial role," Mrs Bindley said.
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Support is readily available and diabetes educators play an important role, providing advice and ongoing help managing diabetes.
"We understand diabetes, and we understand the emotional toll chronic conditions can take. As with all mental health, we encourage clients to seek help from a mental health professional at the onset of symptoms," Mrs Bindley said.
Untreated mental health concerns can have adverse effects on managing diabetes, with research showing people can neglect self-management, healthy eating, taking their medicine and even self-monitoring.
"We want the community to know that a diagnosis of diabetes isn't the end of the road, not at all. It's completely manageable and we're here to support you every step of the way," Mrs Bindley said.
Commercial fee-for-service, appointments with our diabetes educators are available, in addition to a range of free support options.
To make an appointment visit marathonhealth.com.au/diabetes-support or call 1300 402 585.