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02:08

6 Tips to Cope with Diabetes-Related Guilt

Feeling overwhelmed by guilt could affect your treatment outcomes.

Lauren Smith, MAAlexandra Schwarz, MD
Written by Lauren Smith, MA | Reviewed by Alexandra Schwarz, MD
Updated on January 31, 2024

If you have type 2 diabetes, you might feel guilt or shame from time to time. Sadly, it is common, and it stems from stereotypes and misconceptions about diabetes. You may hear or see comments from others (even your doctors) that make you feel guilt. People may say that your lifestyle caused your condition, or imply that you would get better if you could just “fix” your habits.

It’s true that lifestyle plays a role in diabetes prevention and treatment. However, it’s not the only factor. Plus, lifestyle changes are very hard and there are financial and societal pressures that may get in the way.

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  • Tara Kim, MDTara Kim, MD, is an endocrinologist at Lenox Hill Hospital, Northwell Health.
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    References

    American Diabetes Association. (n.d.). Understanding diabetes and mental health.

    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Diabetes and mental health.

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