Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) have completely changed the way diabetes is managed—but they also come with a new kind of challenge: alert fatigue. Those constant beeps, buzzes, and notifications meant to help can sometimes do the opposite—causing stress, burnout, and even frustration. In our latest episode, I sat down with Ginger Vieira, a longtime T1D author and YouTuber, to talk about her experience dealing with CGM alert fatigue and how she learned to make technology work for her instead of against her.

Ginger opened up about the early days of using a CGM and how the nonstop alerts quickly became overwhelming. What started as a helpful safety net soon turned into an exhausting cycle of constant interruptions. Eventually, she made the tough decision to take a break from her CGM and go back to finger sticks for a while—a reminder that even the best tech can become too much if it’s not managed intentionally.

At the time of this recording Ginger used the Libre 3, a small, factory-calibrated sensor that sends glucose readings directly to her phone. Its flexibility has helped her regain a sense of balance. The device’s customizable alerts and optional notifications allow her to stay informed without feeling tethered to constant beeps. It’s a more peaceful way to manage diabetes—without sacrificing safety.

We also discussed how important mental health is when it comes to managing diabetes technology. Constant data access can create anxiety, especially when glucose readings fluctuate throughout the day. For Ginger, it’s been about reframing the role of technology: instead of feeling controlled by the device, she uses it as a supportive tool.

I shared my own Dexcom G7 alert setup, showing how features like snooze, delay first alert, and secondary alert profiles can make a huge difference. These settings help minimize interruptions, especially during sleep or workouts, while still keeping things safe. Finding the right alert balance is deeply personal—what works for one person might not work for another—but the key is remembering that you’re in control of your tech, not the other way around.

If you’ve ever felt drained by constant notifications or overwhelmed by your CGM, this conversation is worth a listen. We talk about practical ways to reduce burnout, use alerts more mindfully, and preserve your peace of mind—without giving up the benefits of continuous monitoring.

Watch the video below or listen to the podcast above to hear the full conversation with Ginger and I.

Disclaimer: Diabetech content is not medical advice—it’s for educational purposes only. Always consult with a physician before making changes to your healthcare.