7 Things To Tell Your Friends & Family About Diabetes

    It can be frustrating when your loved ones don’t seem to understand exactly what your condition means. This can leave you upset and make them feel left out. So, what are the most pressing things that can help them feel more empowered and you more supported? 

    Explain What The Condition Is 

    There is a lot of misinformation and myths around diabetes. Take them through some materials on what diabetes really means and bust those myths. If they’re readers, share some literature. 

    Teach Them About Red Flags To Watch For 

    It can be easy to worry 24/7 if they aren’t sure of warning signs and how to separate them from routine blips that aren’t life-threatening. Explain what red flags to look out for. 

    Get Them Professional Support 

    If you need ongoing assistance with medication administration or diet etc., rope in a nutritionist or a doctor to guide your caregivers. It will help reduce the pressure they may feel about being responsible for your well-being.  

    Ask Them To Join You For A Doctor’s Appointment 

    Take your primary caregiver/partner along with you for your next appointment with the doctor. This will help them understand the condition better, get their doubts cleared directly by the doctor, and make them feel involved. 

    Explain Why Their Support Is Crucial

    Family support can help improve diabetes self-care. From staying on a healthy diet plan to better glycemic control, to improvement in psychological wellbeing, family support can go a long way. Explain that this is scientifically proven.  

    Having health supporters – basically “your team” – can reduce issues surrounding diabetes distress (emotional distress due to this long-term condition), allowing you to gain better control of your blood sugar management as well. 

    Introduce Them To Other Families  

    It might help your loved ones to meet others in the same situation and to talk out anxieties and concerns with them. Meeting or interacting with other families that have someone with diabetes can also equip your team with skills, tips, and tricks on everything from day-to-day diet to useful insights. 

    Talk Regularly 

    With a little empathy and open communication, you and your family should be able to get on top of managing diabetes, without letting it dominate your life or theirs. For instance, when it comes to a partner, they may have concerns around how it could affect your sexual health and relationship. It helps to talk it out. 

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