According to Dr. Maryam Shaygan, Director of the Community-Based Psychiatric Care Research Center, the diagnosis of a chronic disease such as diabetes can cause significant stress for individuals. A person who has just been informed that they have diabetes may initially experience emotions such as anger, sadness, anxiety, hopelessness, and a sense of failure. Therefore, the question arises: How can the treating physician and the patient's family help reduce these negative emotions?

Dr. Maryam Shaygan continued:

"When we face a situation that we perceive as outside of our control, we experience more stress. It is important to emphasize to the patient that this disease is manageable, and the patient plays the most crucial role in controlling their condition. The belief that a disease is manageable can significantly reduce a person's stress. When a patient believes that they are in control of their health, it fosters a sense of empowerment. Instead of focusing solely on the complications of diabetes, which the patient is likely already aware of, try to enhance the patient's sense of hope and self-efficacy. A well-known psychologist in the field of hope, Snyder, explains that hope and having a sense of purpose in life can influence physical health at the molecular level. The belief in one's ability to manage the disease and hope are two key factors in improving the mental health of individuals with chronic diseases."

Dr. Maryam Shaygan also provided the following recommendations to the families of individuals with diabetes:

How can the family of a person with diabetes help?

"The more you educate yourself about diabetes, the better you can support your loved one. However, there are two important points to consider: First, while it is necessary to support the patient both physically and mentally, it is essential not to make the patient overly dependent. Second, avoid acting like a 'diabetes police.' Do not constantly advise, reprimand, or lecture the patient about the consequences and threats of diabetes. Instead, encourage the patient to follow a healthy diet and adhere to the doctor's recommendations. Try to engage in enjoyable activities with the patient, such as walking together. Studies show that individuals with a stronger support system are better able to adhere to a healthy diet. Research on diabetes has shown that individuals who receive better support from their families are more successful in managing their diabetes. Finally, understand that fluctuations in blood sugar levels can sometimes make the patient feel frustrated or irritable. Allow the patient to express their concerns and try to be a good listener."

She added:

"One of the primary challenges faced by our diabetes patients is depression and anxiety. Studies have shown that individuals with diabetes are twice as likely to suffer from depression, and when depression is treated, blood sugar levels often improve significantly. Stress increases blood sugar levels, and depression negatively impacts a person's energy and motivation, reducing their focus on managing their health. Therefore, maintaining mental health in individuals with diabetes is crucial, and it is just as important to prioritize mental health as it is to monitor blood sugar levels. Physical and mental health are intimately connected. Excessive worry about what one can or cannot eat can lead to stress and even obsessive behaviors. Rules that are too rigid are more likely to be broken. So, try to set realistic, short-term goals and proceed step by step. For example, if your doctor has recommended walking for one hour daily, start with 15 minutes of walking in the first week, and gradually increase the time over the following weeks."

"One of the most important factors that can help people resist diseases is happiness, even if it's short-lived happiness. Many studies have been conducted on what makes humans happy. Two factors frequently mentioned in these studies are walking and connecting with nature. In a study I conducted with colleagues in Germany, we found that even watching images of nature can improve the mood of individuals with chronic pain and reduce their pain. Try to create a list of activities that bring you joy and engage in one or more of them every day. Another factor that can influence both physical and mental health is having a sense of purpose in life. People who have clear, realistic goals for the future tend to enjoy better physical health. Having a plan and a goal means knowing what you want to achieve in the next month, year, or two, in different areas of your life. Having a purpose in life increases hope and vitality and prevents excessive focus on the disease."

This holistic approach emphasizes the vital connection between mental health and chronic disease management, especially in conditions like diabetes.