6 ways to stay positive about your diabetes diagnosis

Find out how to keep a positive attitude in spite of your diabetes diagnosis.

If you had a close relative who suffered serious complications from diabetes, you might throw your hands up and assume you're going to suffer the same fate. Or you could take the attitude "That isn't going to happen to me."  Just remember, there is no good reason to give up. Diabetes is very manageable, and most aspects of managing it are under your direct control.

There are no two ways about it; taking good care of your diabetes requires some determination. Using imagery can help. Sit down and close your eyes. Visualize what you want to see yourself doing in the future. Do you want to be alive and healthy enough to play with your grandchildren as they grow up? Do you want to retire to a lifestyle in which you're not limited by health problems, so you can enjoy golfing, fishing, travelling or whatever you love? Thinking about your dreams and aspirations for tomorrow can help give you motivation today.

According to psychologist Mary Cerreto, "If you think of yourself as a diabetic, what comes first? Being a diabetic. Instead, if you say, 'I'm a person with diabetes,' then diabetes is just part of your life, not the whole thing." Look at having diabetes as you would being nearsighted. It's something you need to account for, but it certainly doesn't define you.

Start with three specific, clear, short-term measures. Update the list regularly. If you just received your diagnosis, taking your meds on time and checking your blood sugar when you're supposed to might be enough for you to deal with at first. Once you feel like you're used to your routine, you can add another goal, such as eating five fruits and veggies per day, or taking a 30-minute walk three days a week. Specific, realistic and limited goals will keep you from feeling overwhelmed.

Almost everyone has at least one major problem to deal with in life, be it a health problem, a financial challenge or marital trouble. If you catch yourself having a pity party because of your diabetes, remind yourself that no one's life is perfect. Then take a few minutes to remind yourself of the future you've visualized. And tell yourself that it's up to you to make it happen by eating healthy, staying active and monitoring your blood sugar (and acting on the results).

Before you get out of bed in the morning, take a moment to appreciate the things you might typically take for granted. Like having shelter, regular meals, clean water, clothes and friends. And don't forget to be grateful for access to health insurance, top-rate medications and the ability to improve your well-being with diet and exercise. Counting your blessings will make you more aware of how lucky you really are.