coworkers to his condition, in the event a sweetened drink or candy might have to be administered unexpectedly to forestall diabetic coma. As well, the possibility of diabetic's lapsing into increasing unconsciousness might leave the impression that the diabetic is not an entirely reliable employee. Sharing such information with colleagues has the potential of embarrassing a diabetic or making him vulnerable to a negative perception in a competitive employment environment. The psychological implications of these physical factors arise because of the need for the diabetic to come to terms with symptom realities. To put it another way, realization of the full weight and import of diabetes could result in tremendous anxiety. If the condition becomes so severe that amputation is anticipated the psychological trauma could even result in suicidal tendencies (Needham & Others, 1993).
It appears that that the severity of the disease can be controlled if diet and exercise patterns are altered; however, once diabetes sets in, it becomes a permanent condition (Susman & Helseth, 1997). Ironically, it also appears that Type II diabetes can sometimes be prevented. Although adult-onset diabetes is associated with family histories, it is also strongly associated with overweight, which is itself associated with the sedentary way of life that has become typical of so much of the population (DiBacco, 1997). Overindulgence in carbohydrates, including alcohol, and a lack of regular exercise can also make the disease more likely to occur, a fact aggravated by family history of diabetes (Type II, 1996).
Type II diabetes is not necessarily insulin-dependent; that is, not all patients must be treated by injections or oral intake of insulin. To be sure, insulin or other drugs that may facilitate insulin productions are used to treat the disease. Susman and Hel
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