29: When Diabetes Makes You Too Angry

Sweet Talk for Parents of Kids with Type One Diabetes

It’s so hard to stay level when you’re parenting – and adding type 1 to the mix can really turn up the temperature on feeling out of control. In this week’s podcast, Annie and I talk together about a question from “Feeling out of control in Albuquerque” who is struggling with the anger that can sweep over her when something goes sideways with diabetes.

Annie and I both relate to this mom. We know what it’s like to feel like you’ve got the hang of this disease – that you can handle what it throws at you – only to find yourself yelling and distressed. Being more seasoned as a T1D caregiver can trick you into thinking that the problems have gone away and that it will all be smooth sailing.

A few highlights;

• It’s super normal to feel angry when there’s a big pump failure or when diabetes side-swipes you. What’s important is to separate your feelings from the behavior that comes next. Yelling is probably not your next best move. ;
• But to handle the anger and not start yelling, it’s also important to practice making more room for your feelings. That anger may be telling you that you need (and deserve) more support and connection around the problems that come up. It might also indicate that you need to give yourself permission for these tough feelings – even as you’re putting the brakes on some of the behaviors.
• It’s okay to talk to your kids about being angry, as long as you’re being age appropriate. Even better is to show them ways to manage that anger appropriately. We go into this more in the show!

Sign up for my free The T1D Partner Toolbox webinar on May 17 at 5:30PT/8:30 ET.

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