Dr. Laura Kaminsky, Ph.D. R. Psych and Michael Watts, MSW, RSW What - - PowerPoint PPT Presentation

• Dr. Laura Kaminsky, Ph.D. R. Psych and

Michael Watts, MSW, RSW

What is stress? What are symptoms of stress? How does stress impact blood

sugars?

How can stress be managed to

avoid impact on blood sugars?

 Defined as a feeling of strain or

pressure that places a demand on physical or psychological resources.

 Small amounts of stress may be

beneficial to performance.

 However, chronic and excessive stress

can lead to physical health and mental health concerns.

 Feeling of being overwhelmed  Anxiety  Low Mood  Irritability  Loss of Appetite  Exhaustion  Insomnia  Gastrointestinal difficulties  Headache

 Stress can have an impact on blood sugar

levels, typically causing elevations in blood sugars.

 Stress triggers a surge of power-boosting

hormones (epinephrine/cortisol) which stimulate the release of stored sugar into

• ur blood

 If unchecked, stress can have a lasting

impact on one’s ability to manage their diabetes

 Many individuals have greater difficulties

caring for diabetes during periods of stress.

 The elevations of blood sugars due to stress

as well as due to deterioration of adherence to diabetes care routines can have a large impact on diabetes control.

 Symptoms of high blood sugars (e.g. impacts

• n concentration, energy level and mood)

create stressful situations more challenging to deal with.

 Complete extra testing during times of stress

and take applicable steps to manage high blood sugars

 Put resources such as watch/phone alarms in

place to serve as reminders.

 Keep a log/journal of stressful times in your

life as a strategy to identify patterns of stress

 Access support from trusted others.

 If feeling high, test your blood sugar. Test

urine for ketones if your blood sugar is 14

• r higher.

 Use up to date medical supplies  Stay true to your diet, exercise and medical

regimen

 Consult with your medical team if your

unsure of how to properly correct your blood sugars

 Manage time wisely  Be prepared for work and educational

deadlines

 Learn to be assertive and be realistic in terms

• f time commitments

 Prioritize work tasks  Learn to delegate where needed  Maintain a healthy work-life balance

 Maintain healthy eating during times

• f stress.

 Make adequate sleep a priority.  Engage in regular physical activity  Consider activities such as yoga,

meditation or martial arts as part of a regular routine.

 Have regular recreational and down

time

 Seek support from others.  Challenge negative thinking patterns  Let go of perfectionism  Relaxation and deep breathing  Break difficult tasks into smaller

chunks to combat procrastination

 Set realistic goals.

 Make diabetes care a priority at all times and

especially during times of stress.

 Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of

stress

 Understand your moments of vulnerability

and have a plan to appropriately manage

 Be aware of your limits, try to avoid

• verextending yourself

 Keep in regular contact with your medical

team