Where do I begin | Pre-Diabetes | Phase One
Phase One - I have what?
If you have recently been diagnosed with diabetes, then you probably have many questions and may still be confused about the disease and how your life is going to change.
Most people, who have just learned that they have diabetes, tend to have similar feelings and emotions concerning their condition. There are three distinct phases that people with diabetes usually go through.
Phase One is “I have what?” Below is one example of how someone in Phase One of diabetes may be feeling.
Mary Ann has just been told by her physician that she has Type 2 diabetes.
"I can‘t believe this is happening to me. It just can't be. I'm so confused and don't know where to turn. I don‘t want to change my life just because I have some disease. Where do I begin?"
After being diagnosed with diabetes, you were probably shocked and confused. Many people who are newly diagnosed with diabetes are in a state of denial. You may feel powerless or fearful about your future. With so many questions, it‘s hard to know where to begin.*
There are a few simple steps that you can take to understand diabetes and begin making modest lifestyle changes that will put you on the road to better health and wellness.
First, talk with your physician. He or she will be your best resource for understanding your individual needs and treatments.
Second, begin to examine your eating habits. Nutrition is a key component in managing diabetes. Your eating habits will directly affect your blood glucose levels, and thus contribute to your overall well-being.
Third, get started on a fitness routine (remember to consult with your physician before beginning any new exercise regimen). Physical activity is an important key to controlling blood glucose levels, as well as lessening the risk for many diabetes-related conditions including heart disease, high blood pressure, and obesity.
Finally, don‘t be afraid to ask questions. Getting the right information will help you to better understand diabetes and put you on the right track. Rite Aid Pharmacists can play a significant role in the life of a person newly diagnosed with diabetes. They can take the time to consult one-on-one with you to answer questions and calm fears. They can even offer resources, such as the Rite Aid Diabetes Guide, to help with answers to basic diabetes questions.
For more information on managing diabetes go to our Understanding section.
