Our brains work in incredibly complex ways. As our knowledge of neuroscience improves, we are beginning to understand just how important our brains are when it comes to our bodies and the diseases we are susceptible to.

Unfortunately, one of the side effects of many chronic diseases is an increase of risk of depression and other mental struggles.

#1 Mood swings

We all know what low blood sugar feels like—we get irritable, tired, grumpy and lash out at the people around us before we get a snack or have a meal and feel balanced again. Our blood sugar does have a major effect on our mood and how we react to the world around us. Mood swings can make us feel unstable and unbalanced.

One way to deal with mood swings caused by spikes and dips in blood sugar is to make sure you know when your blood sugar gets too low or too high. If you recognize the signs, you are better able to know what you need to regulate your blood glucose levels. Eventually, you can learn how to regulate your blood sugar, so that you don’t experience extreme highs or lows during the day.

#2 Anxiety & Depression

Studies have shown that people with chronic illnesses are more susceptible to mental illness as a complication of their original disease. A diabetes diagnosis can cause a person anxiety, and the continued struggle of dealing with a chronic condition can result in depression and other mental struggles.

Talking to your doctor about potential mental complications can help you recognize the signs of depression, anxiety, or other issues before they become serious problems.

#3 Exercise

Exercise makes your body more resilient and can improve some of the symptoms of diabetes. It can help you lose weight, regulate your blood glucose levels and maintain an overall healthy lifestyle.

Exercise also has benefits for your mental health. By working out, you are releasing endorphins, chemicals that can improve your mood and help create healthy exercise habits. Anything from gardening to yoga, jogging to joining a sports team can help you get the exercise you need.

#4 Stress

Dealing with a chronic condition can be stressful. For people with diabetes, this diagnosis can make them feel isolated and anxious. These feelings, in turn, can have negative effects on relationships and your overall quality of life. Dealing with stress can involve talking to your doctor, creating a supportive community of friends and family around you, and developing strategies to find relaxing moments in your everyday life.