The Question Coach blitz for tackling Type 2 Diabetes.
Grab yourself a paper and pen and take a deep breath.
Are you ready?
Go. (Feel free to add your own answers)
Q.1 What’s the problem?
Ans: I have type 2 diabetes which means my blood sugars are too high.
Q. 2 Why do I have this problem?
Ans: Partly because of my genetics and partly because of my lifestyle.
Q.3 How does it limit me?
Ans: I have to be careful what foods I eat. I have to take medication. I am more susceptible to infections and other chronic diseases.
Q.4 Could the problem be worse?
Ans: Yes, I might need insulin injections. I have a higher risk of needing a limb amputation. I have an increased risk of having a stroke or heart attack.
Q. 5 What do I want?
Ans: To reduce my blood sugars. To reduce the amount of medication I need. And ultimately to reverse my diabetes and reduce my risk of other chronic diseases.
Q. 6 When do I want it?
Ans: As soon as possible.
Q.7 How will I know when I have it?
Ans: My blood sugars will be lower. I will have lost weight and feel fitter. My blood pressure will be lower.
Q. 8 When I get what I want is there anything I might lose?
Ans: I might not be able to eat the foods I really like.
Q. 9 What resources do I have available to help me get it.
Ans: I have my doctors and nurses for advice. I can get information from the diabetes society. I can read articles in book, newspapers, websites. I can look at scientific research.
Q. 10 What good can come from this?
Ans: I can lead a healthier life and live longer and happier. I can act as a role model to help others, especially family members who may also have a genetically higher risk of diabetes.
Q. 11 What can I learn from this experience?
Ans: I have the necessary control and knowledge to successfully manage this condition, which I can use in other areas of my life.
Q. 12 What can I do Now to help me get what I want?
Ans: Start taking action – making immediate changes to lifestyle; diet, exercise, sleep and relaxation.