A wide range of emotions are associated with both the onset of diabetes and living with it. If these emotions are not recognized and addressed as needed, they can also affect the well-being of the romantic relationship. The manifestation of various emotions related to diabetes is individual, but recognizing them is always beneficial for both the person with diabetes and their loved ones.
It is also important for partners in a romantic relationship to understand the relentless nature of diabetes. Diabetes is always present, every hour of every day of the week. Therefore, emotions are just as much a part of ongoing life with diabetes as they are of the acute phase of being diagnosed with it. Especially if the emotions related to the onset of the diabetes have not been addressed at that stage, they may later return to challenge the relationship and the resilience within the relationship.
The significance of relationships increases during tough times
Sometimes, emotions related to diabetes can grow and worsen to the point where they start to limit a person's life. It can be said that almost everyone with diabetes experiences at least occasional fatigue from managing their condition. Sometimes, this fatigue can become so intense that it not only interferes with diabetes management but also affects other areas of life. Moreover, severe fears related to low blood sugars can significantly limit a person's activities. In these situations, the significance of romantic relationships and other interpersonal connections becomes even more pronounced as the need for support increases. Romantic, family, and friendship relationships can act as enhancers of positive experiences and support in emotional processing during difficult times and amidst challenging emotions.