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In this episode, I break down one of the most overlooked emotional challenges in T1D: the progression toward burnout. Using a clear, step-by-step hierarchy, I explain how confusion, overwhelm, fear, and distrust build on each other — and can ultimately lead to burnout and depression. 

You’ll learn how to recognize where you are on this ladder, why each stage happens, and what you can do right now to pull yourself out and regain stability, confidence, and control in your diabetes management.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Burnout doesn’t just “happen”; it follows a predictable emotional sequence.
• Confusion is the first sign — but fear and distrust are the danger zones.
• Most people stay stuck because they try to figure it out alone.
• You only ever have two choices: take action or stay where you are.
• Taking action — even small action — is what moves you out of burnout.
• You deserve support, and you don’t have to navigate burnout on your own.

✔ The 5-stage hierarchy that leads to diabetes burnout:

1. Confusion — Why am I at 200+? Why isn’t insulin working?
2. Overwhelm — Too many decisions, too much data, too much uncertainty.
3. Fear — Fear of lows, fear of taking insulin, fear of decisions.
4. Distrust — Losing faith in your ability to manage diabetes.
5. Burnout — The point where you shut down, give up, or disconnect.

✔ What support actually looks like

Not just “your doctor,” but:
• Coaching
• Community
• Podcasts
• Events
• T1D peers
• Curiosity & self-reflection
• Asking better questions

✔ The reflection question that can shift everything

“Where is this emotion coming from — and why is it happening?”

About the Host

I’m Coach Ken Kniss, founder of Simplifying Life With Diabetes and host of The Healthy Diabetic Podcast. I help people living with T1D cut through the overwhelm, confusion, fear, and distrust in their daily decisions, so they can feel confident and live without consistently worrying about lows, their body image, or long term complications.

🌐 Website: SimplifyingDiabetes.com
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Podcast Disclaimer: Nothing that you hear on The Healthy Diabetic Podcast should be considered medical advice or otherwise; please always consult your medical TEAM before making any changes to your Diabetes management.

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