Sarah here, back again this week to share what I’ve been thinking about in the times of coronavirus as a young adult with type 1 diabetes (T1D)! As a reminder, I’m not a healthcare professional – I’m just a person with T1D who’s trying to get through this quarantine the best I can. If you need medical advice, as always, you should talk to your T1D care team.
Last week, I talked about some exercises that I use to maintain a positive mindset, and let me tell you, I’ve been putting them to the test this past week.
I honestly didn’t really know what I was going to write about this week because everything feels extra scary and stressful right now. I know all the mindfulness tips, and to drink a lot of water and eat healthy foods, but it’s hard to make yourself do all those things when you feel so bad all the time.
I feel bad this week, but I know I’m not alone in that.
So, I’ve started thinking about how I can change my negative coping strategies and break myself out of those patterns. Here’s a system that has been working for me:
Step 1: Ask yourself “what am I getting out of this coping strategy?”
I’ve been staring at my phone a lot. Swiping through Instagram, reading sad news on twitter, figuring out what a 7th grade classmate is up to now. Lather, rinse, repeat.
When I ask myself why I’m scrolling endlessly, the answer is because it passes the time and drowns out the stressful thoughts rolling on repeat in my head.
Step 2: Think of positive ways to meet your previous strategy goals.
Ask yourself why you cope in that way. What are you gaining from the behavior you want to change? No judgments – just be aware of what your mind and body really need.
Then, think of activities that would allow you to feel those benefits, and could take the place of the behavior you want to change.
For me, rather than staring at my phone to make time go by faster, I started reading Harry Potter. I’ve never read or seen it, so I’m really invested in the story, and the hours go by so fast!
Or consider, instead of looking to see what others are doing on social media, reach out and check in on them. It will make you both feel better, more grounded and connected. We need each other now, more than ever.
If you’re in the same sad boat with me, I hope this is helpful for you. Be nice to yourself this week!
Stay safe and up to date on the latest recommendations from the experts about COVID-19 and T1D. Check out Breakthrough T1D’s COVID-19 resources page.
