Most people experience stress from time to time. While occasional stress is to be expected, prolonged or intense feelings of stress are cause for concern, especially if you suffer from diabetes. Stress can impact your blood glucose levels and as a result can exacerbate diabetic symptoms.  Below are tips to help gain control of your stress.

1.       Exercise. Exercise can decrease tension in your body, enhance cognitive functioning, improve concentration, reduce fatigue, and lower levels of overall stress.

2.      Restful sleep. Inadequate or poor quality sleep can make stress and anxiety worse. Try to get seven to nine hours of restful sleep a night.

3.      Be kind to yourself. Take time to do something you enjoy each day.

4.       Prioritize tasks and make sure the goals you are setting realistic goals for yourself.

5.      Write down your worry. Writing down your worries can help you think about the stressful situation more realistically and can also help you problem solve the issue.

6.       Seek help. The most important thing to consider is how stress is impacting your quality of life. If stress is interfering with your physical health, relationships, or career, it may be time to seek professional help. The earlier you obtain help, the quicker you will be on the path to recovery.