By Mrs. Vidyulatha Ashok,
Consultant Psychologist, Dr. Mohan’s Diabetes Specialties Centre

The three words, “You have diabetes” could sound like a life sentence as it implies a lifetime of regular medication, exercise, timing and a ‘No’ to sugar and spice and everything nice (sic). This pervasive disorder of the pancreas could affect anyone, be it the young, the old, children, men, or women, at any point in time. Being mainly a lifestyle-related disease, modification of one’s lifestyle could go a long way not only in preventing the illness but also in worsening the condition. Unfortunately, most individuals are not proactive regarding the management of diabetes till it comes to a point of no return, in other words, complications set in.

Individuals go through a plethora of emotions at the onset and throughout the course of the illness, such as denial, anger, depression, anxiety, and emotional distress. Research has shown that women are particularly vulnerable to the above, due to the socio-cultural context and religious beliefs. The ‘service before self’ motto is particularly applicable where women are concerned as this kind of conditioning starts from childhood. However, self-care is one of the core concepts of managing diabetes effectively, but women put themselves last, and this could be a formidable barrier to glycaemic control. Women have the added responsibility of looking after the family, doing household chores, and balancing work and home, sometimes. They are constantly playing the roles of a wife, mother, daughter-in-law, sister, and daughter, to name a few.

Multi-tasking gives them little time for themselves and their health. Hence, diabetes can take its toll on women, especially, since they tend to ignore physical symptoms, discomfort, pain, and even complications, as they have to fulfill the gender-specific roles. When disabilities set in due to neglect, and they are unable to fulfill their duties, they feel more depressed. Another issue could be financial constraints, in which case they would rather not spend for their treatment, and use the money for more pressing needs, which again leads to dire consequences.

This Mother’s Day, let us, as women learn to prioritize ourselves and look after ourselves and our health without any guilt. Our physical and mental well-being is of prime importance to our families, too, as there will be no one to care for them, otherwise.  Let self-care be our motto on this special day and forever, to tide us through difficult times and keep us in good health.