Often patients complain that they are told too much, too quickly. If you are not given time to adjust, you may not be able to absorb any information. It is important that you work through your emotions, gaining the knowledge you need at your own pace. If you leave the clinic feeling that your fears have not been heard and your questions have not been answered, you may become angry or upset. If this happens, ask to see a different doctor or nurse if one is available, because these negative emotions can lead to depression and anxiety if they are not addressed.

After your initial consultation, you will have time to consider further how you feel. Your feelings about your diabetes are likely to change. You will be able to continue addressing your emotional reaction to your diabetes at future consultations. One of the most effective forms of psychological support comes from other people with diabetes. Your healthcare team should be able to put you in touch with organised diabetes patient groups.

It can be hard getting to grips with diabetes, but as time passes it is likely that you will be able to accept the diagnosis and find it easier to manage your condition. If you are finding your diabetes difficult to come to terms with and manage, it is important that your share this with your healthcare team. They will be able to give you more advice and can organise more specialised psychological help for you if required.

A diagnosis of diabetes: What your health professional may do

• Tell you that you have diabetes, after first asking whether you would like a partner or other close companion present.
• Ask you what you already know about diabetes.
• Take a detailed family history from you, paying particular attention to whether your parents or other close relatives have had diabetes or cardiovascular disease (e.g. high blood pressure, stroke).
• Ask whether you have any friends or workmates with diabetes.
• Ask whether you know anything about how they reacted to their diagnosis.
• Give you basic information.
• Arrange further education sessions for you with the healthcare team.
• Offer to arrange for you to take part in group support sessions.
• Arrange all your necessary further screening appointments.
• Teach you how to self-test your blood and urine for glucose levels.