This is Episode 4 of a 6-part series talking about how to overcome the biggest mental health challenges of living with T1D.

In this episode, we talk about the relationship between anxiety and T1D with Alexi Melvin. Alexi was diagnosed with T1D 17 years ago when she was 14. She is the Chair of Beyond Type 1 Leadership Council Content Committee and is passionate about being a voice for people living with T1D everywhere.

Anxiety is common in people with T1D. Living with T1D is full of ‘what ifs’ - ‘What if my blood sugar goes low during my presentation?’, ‘What if people think I’m weird?’, ‘What if I develop complications?’. If these worries get out of control, they can affect your behavior, quality of life, and your blood sugars.

Alexi tells us how anxiety around T1D has affected her life and what she has found helpful in managing her anxiety. The key takeaway is running from anxiety doesn’t make it go away - in fact, it usually makes it worse.

You can find Alexi on Instagram @alexienergyart.

Find out more about The Diabetes Psychologist at www.thediabetespsychologist.com and on Instagram @thediabetespsychologist.