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  • 2 days ago
“They Think I’m Overreacting” – The Hidden Struggle of Hypoglycemia and How to Handle It with Dignity
Transcript
00:00You're feeling it again, that sudden wave of dizziness, the tremble in your hands, the sweat beating on your brow.
00:06Your heart beats faster, your thoughts blur at the edges, and you know, this is hypoglycemia.
00:13All you want is to steady yourself, maybe reach quietly for a juice box, but the world around you keeps spinning.
00:20Someone nearby glances your way. Maybe they look concerned, maybe they look annoyed.
00:25And then comes the comment, you're overreacting, it can't be that bad.
00:31Have you ever been there?
00:33Managing hypoglycemia is about so much more than just keeping your blood sugar in check.
00:38It's about navigating a world that often doesn't see, or understand, what you're going through.
00:43When your body betrays you, dropping your glucose and plunging you into confusion or fear, what you really need is support.
00:50Yet so often, what you're met with is skepticism, misunderstanding, or even judgment.
00:58Maybe someone tells you, didn't you just eat? Or, you're always making a fuss.
01:03Or worse, their silence speaks volumes, dismissing your struggle as inconvenient drama.
01:09But the truth is, you are not overreacting.
01:12You are being brave.
01:13You are doing your best to manage a body that sometimes turns on you.
01:17And that, in itself, is an act of courage.
01:20Let's talk about what hypoglycemia really feels like.
01:23Your heart starts to race, pounding in your chest like a warning drum.
01:27Your palms turn clammy, cold sweat trickling down your skin.
01:31Confusion sets in.
01:32Simple thoughts get tangled.
01:34Your words might come out wrong.
01:35And it becomes hard to focus on anything except the rising panic inside.
01:39There's that unmistakable sense of losing control, of your body slipping out of your hands.
01:45And when people, especially those closest to you, don't understand, it's easy to internalize their doubts.
01:53Their dismissiveness can morph into your own self-doubt, making you feel ashamed of needing help.
01:58But that shame?
02:00It's more dangerous than any sugar drop.
02:02Because it can stop you from speaking up, from reaching out when you need it most.
02:07So how do you handle hypoglycemia with dignity, even in a world that sometimes doesn't get it?
02:13Here are a few practical ways to protect both your body and your peace of mind.
02:18First, educate your circle.
02:20Explain to your family, friends, and co-workers what hypoglycemia is and what it feels like.
02:26You might say,
02:27When my sugar drops, I'm not panicking.
02:30My body is sending an urgent signal and I need to respond quickly.
02:35Sometimes, a little understanding goes a long way in easing judgment.
02:39Second, prepare a non-verbal signal.
02:42Maybe it's a subtle hand gesture, a word, or even a text message.
02:47Having a discreet way to communicate that you need space or sugar can help you get support
02:51without drawing unwanted attention or sparking unnecessary drama.
02:56Third, always carry your essentials.
02:59Whether it's glucose tablets, juice, or a quick snack,
03:03having what you need within arm's reach isn't just about safety.
03:07It's about self-respect.
03:09You're setting yourself up for success and showing yourself the care that you deserve.
03:14Finally, reclaim your narrative.
03:15Remind yourself, and others, that this is my condition.
03:20I know it.
03:21I manage it.
03:22I don't need permission to protect my health.
03:25You are the expert on your own body.
03:27You don't have to justify your actions or apologize for taking care of yourself.
03:31So the next time someone suggests you're overreacting, remember, you are not.
03:36You are listening to your body.
03:38That's not weakness.
03:40It's strength.
03:40Every time you prioritize your well-being, you are acting with dignity and self-respect.
03:46Let's work together to normalize kindness and understanding,
03:50not just for hypoglycemia, but for all invisible struggles.
03:54Because everyone deserves compassion, especially when the battle is hidden.
03:58You've got this.
04:01After that.

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