Fighting diabetes fatigue

Combating diabetes fatigue is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. But these suggestions from two experts who work with patients on the issue may help:

Break it down: "Stop looking at your diabetes care as a boulder and think of it as a pile of stones and take it one rock at a time," says Andrea Braverman, a psychologist at Thomas Jefferson University. "Try not to get overwhelmed."

Innovate: "If a patient is having trouble monitoring their blood glucose four times a day, I might suggest that they stagger times and monitor once a day over three days - one day breakfast, one day lunch, and one day before dinner," says University of Pennsylvania endocrinologist Mark Schutta.

Get in touch with your emotions: Braverman suggests acknowledging when you're feeling anxious or angry, and embracing those feelings. If your burnout leads to depression, try talking with a mental-health professional.

Take action: "Come up with creative strategies. Think about how you can change the way you think about your care," says Braverman. Consider hiring a health coach, visiting a diabetes educator, enlisting friends and family in your care - or, if your diabetes-control practices are rigid, take a weekend off. "If you're a writer, you might want to let your feelings out by journaling," she says. "Or

go online for support."

Go hi-tech: Not just to get the latest technology, but for someone burned out on

their disease, a new glucometer might provide a bit of needed novelty. A new app might make it easier - or more fun - to monitor sugars, exercise, or diet.

(Try searching, and then ask your diabetes provider about what looks good to you.)

- Ilene Raymond Rush

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