Hearts 4 Minds Delves into Diabetes and How it Impacts Mental Health.

Diabetes involves numerous things to think about. You have to plan every aspect of your day, track your blood glucose levels, dose insulin, stay active, and watch what you eat. This can be immensely stressful and leave you overwhelmed, which in turn negatively impacts your mental health. That’s why staying on top of your mental health is key when diagnosed with diabetes. To get a good look at what it’s like being diabetic and struggling with mental health, Hearts 4 Minds spoke to Ryan Krejci, a Digital Strategist for Cause Inspired Media. 

“I was diagnosed with diabetes at 4 years old,” said Krejci. “It’s all I’ve ever known and it’s often difficult to carry out everyday functions.”

According to Ryan, his blood sugar levels had an impact on what he could do. He couldn’t go out whenever he wanted, do certain things, or eat certain food items, and this was especially true during his college years as a collegiate swimmer. He wasn't able to race or perform the way he wanted due to his diagnosis, and that negatively impacted his mental health.

“I always struggled with depression and anxiety,” said Krejci. “A lot of that stems from diabetes. Constantly aware of my body and ending up in the hospital due to my levels, unable to eat the same as everyone else, affected my mental health and everyday life.”

As Ryan got older, however, things started improving. He started using DexCom, which helps monitor blood sugar. This management gave him better control of his body, which in turn improved his mental state. Another thing he credits is relying on family and friends to get him through the worst of times.

“A support system is super important, as is educating others” according to Krejci. “They didn’t understand what it was like to live with diabetes, so informing them, improved our relationships and ensured I had the proper support necessary when I was struggling. I still deal with anxiety and depression to this day, but it’s much more manageable thanks to that support.”

When asked what he would say to others also diagnosed with diabetes, Ryan had this to say:

“There is a lot of stigma and belief that you can’t do what you want to with your life. That’s not true. If you find your support system and keep on trying to achieve your goals, you’ll be able to achieve whatever you set out to do. Don’t give up.”