Living with diabetes can cause a great deal of worry for some people. Each person will have varying responses as to how they cope with it.
Moreover, in February 2020, a record 2 million people were at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Given that odds increase due to obesity and inactivity, it’s unlikely numbers have fallen on the back of covid lockdowns and some people preferring to stay home beyond official government mandates.
Of course, everyone needs support occasionally. Still, if you know someone living with diabetes, your approach to offering assistance may need to change slightly depending on their circumstances. Here are some tips to consider that might help you succeed here.
Learn More About Diabetes
If you know what you’re talking about, you’ll be in a much better position to provide comfort and empathy to those you love. Therefore, the first thing you should do is learn more about diabetes.
Take care to use credible resources only here. Visit The London Diabetes Centre’s webpage titled ‘What is Diabetes? Everything You Need to Know’ to bring yourself up to speed. Everything from the definition to the role of insulin is fully explored here, alongside the different types, causes, and symptoms of the chronic medical condition.
If you make an effort to see things from your loved one’s perspective, it could bring you closer together. The discussions you share can be detailed and honest, and in educating yourself, you’re proving your commitment to them.
Accompany Them
Diabetes is a medical condition that requires careful management. While your loved one should obviously be trusted to take care of themselves, there may be moments where your company counts for a great deal.
They may request that you accompany them to doctor appointments or support groups. If you receive an invite, try to go with them. Your presence is a show of solidarity, and it may give them the confidence to engage more in support group settings too. In turn, they may get more out of each session.
Of course, joining the support group sessions are a chance for you to learn more about diabetes on a mental and emotional level. You can integrate yourself into the community and perhaps even meet the supportive loved ones of other attendees and exchange thoughts. In the end, these adventures can be enriching for all parties concerned and help you better support your loved one.
Pay Attention to Moods
As you spend more time around your loved ones, you may occasionally notice fluctuations in their mood. You should try to observe things closely here.
Several diabetes-related factors could cause dips in their demeanour. Your loved one’s blood sugar may have dropped, in which case a gentle reminder could be appropriate. Alternatively, others may be trying to micromanage what they consume on their behalf, in which case you should perhaps give them space and talk about something unrelated to what’s bothering them.
Of course, they may be tired of having diabetes altogether. Remember that an open dialogue can be a huge release for them after bottling up their anxieties and frustrations for so long. You should try to be someone they can vent to freely in those situations. Endeavour to be understanding, and you’ll always make progress.
