October 01, 2025 Navigating emotions: dealing with a new diabetes diagnosis

Receiving a diabetes diagnosis can be overwhelming—and that’s completely normal. To help you (or someone you care for) cope emotionally, especially in those early days and weeks, we’ve pulled together some tips from a conversation Diabetes Canada’s Knowledge & Connection manager Cayla Runka had with psychologist Dr. Dayna Lee-Baggley, PhD, R. Psych, in our virtual Open Hours webinar Dealing with a New Diagnosis.

What is one of the first things you should know when you’re diagnosed? 

“Grief is a really normal part of getting a diagnosis,” says Dr Dayna Lee-Bagley. Emotions can range from fear or sadness to confusion about how this will change your life and what this will mean for you.  

Here’s what else you’ll learn in the video: 

• How to deal with these feelings
• Where to get support
• How to recharge and deal with stress and burnout when you live with a chronic condition. 

What are some other important messages?

“You can have a meaningful life. It’s just going to look different,” says Dr. Lee-Baggley. It’s important to have a flexible mindset, and avoid self-blame. There are things you can do for your condition but there are also a lot of contributing factors. 

“Make the time and energy to do what matters for you, your family, your life,” says Dr. Lee-Baggley. This may mean giving up or delegating tasks. 

Ask for and accept help regarding your emotions when needed. “We know that diabetes distress [which includes aspects similar to depression] is about twice as common in people with diabetes,” says Cayla, adding. “Self-advocacy is important.”

What can you do now?

For more information, watch Dealing with a New Diabetes Diagnosis or visit the webpage, Diabetes Open Hours: Dealing with a New Diagnosis. You can also check out our other resources. 

Join Diabetes Canada Connect, our free, online community right from your phone. Download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play, and meet and talk to others who may be experiencing many of the same feelings you are.

Dealing with a New Diagnosis reminds us that help, hope, and healthy futures begin with taking that first step—together, says Cayla. “The more we talk about diabetes, and the more it is open and out there, the less stigma is associated with it.” 

Did you know?

Diabetes is a 24/7 complex condition that impacts every part of a person’s life. We see the strength it takes to live with diabetes every day—and we’re here to support you with the tools and resources to empower you on your journey of resilience. Visit Honouring the Resilience of People with Diabetes,our way of saying: we see you, we get it, and you’re not alone. Our newly launched platform reflects the truth about  living with diabetes and the resilience it takes to keep going. Together, we are #TypeResilient.