A recent survey of people with diabetes revealed that more than 70% have struggled with their mental health at some point.

Sometimes managing life with diabetes can feel overwhelming.

You may struggle to try and balance the challenge of caring for others with looking after your own health. The shock of diagnosis, making lifestyle changes, getting regular check-ups or remembering to take medication can all have an impact.

It's common to experience anxiety, depression or what we call diabetes distress - a sense of feeling overwhelmed or of failing in some way.

Sometimes the struggle can turn inwards, resulting in self-criticism. If you find yourself doing that, it can help to stop for a moment. Think about how you would treat a best friend or someone you care for, and do the same for yourself. We call this self-compassion.

World Mental Health Day is on 10th October, and Know Diabetes wants to raise more awareness on mental health issues and help people living with diabetes find the support, resources, advice and tips they need. We strongly believe in having healthy and open conversations on mental health.

Our mental health campaign consists of three emails - we hope you find them insightful and helpful. In the meantime, please re-visit our email for some engaging content.