Shame is a common emotion within the diabetes community. We may inject insulin under tables at restaurants, work through lunch breaks, purposely skip endocrinologist appointments, and wear clothes that hide our pumps and cgms – all to avoid judgement around our condition. Shame can fuel perfectionism and urges to fix ourselves, while we simultaneously put ourselves down when we “fail” at diabetes management. These cycles can be reinforced by medical professionals, friends, family members, and community stigmas.
Shame flourishes in the dark. It thrives in secrecy, silence, judgement, and the belief that we are alone. It thrives when we hide our diabetes. It thrives when we stay silent about the emotional challenges we face along the diabetes journey. It thrives when we judge others and ourselves. When we run from our shame, it stacks up – adding new shame on top of old shame.
Our voices are more powerful than we think. The more we share our stories and struggles, the more we can connect with others who share similar pain and discomforts. This tells shame that we’re not alone and instead are worthy of connection and belonging.
Shame diminishes in public.
We don’t have to live life hiding our diabetes. In fact, there are so many great things that come out of showing our diabetes. Stay tuned for stories from fellow members of the diabetes community throughout November’s Diabetes Awareness Month. And, use the #ShowYourDiabetes hashtag to connect with other people within the diabetes online community (DOC) who are collectively using their voices to reduce shame around diabetes.
“Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we’ll ever do.”