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Managing diabetes
is a full-time job, but
you don’t have to do
it alone. Here’s how
to build a reliable
support network
SUPPORT
YOUR
NETWORK
others when you take away the
pressure of speaking face-to-face.
Digital diabetes communities –
such as beyondtype1.org,
myD.ndss.com.au, diabetesdaily.
com, tudiabetes.org and even
searching “diabetes” on Facebook
for a plethora of online groups,
both local and international – are
handy, even if you don’t post
(lurking is totally OK). Finding
an online community can help
you discover new insights and
see that others have similar
concerns and are supported.
Another option? Twitter. Follow
hashtags such as #diabetes,
#T1D, #type1diabetes, #T2D,
#type2diabetes, #dsma and
#wearenotwaiting.Talk it Out
Managing diabetes can be
exhausting – emotionally andYour family and friends
have the best intentions,
but they don’t always know
how to support your diabetes
management. Try these ways
to grow your support team.Find Your Tribe
“A community of people who
have similar experiences and who
‘get you’ can go a long way,” says
Mark Heyman, director of the
Centre for Diabetes and Mental
Health in San Diego. Attend
a local meet-up or support group
through JDRF or Diabetes
Australia. For kids (and adults
too!), Beyond Type 1’s Snail
Mail Club is a penpal program
that connects people with
type 1 from around the world.Connect Online
It can be easier to bond withphysically. If you feel
overwhelmed, depressed or
anxious, Heyman suggests
working with a diabetes therapist
to help identify coping strategies.
Visit diabetesaustralia.com.au/
depression-and-mental-health
for more information.Get Coached
A diabetes coach (educator)
can provide the extra support
and actionable tools you need
to reach your goals. Ask your
doctor for recommendations.
When you find one, check their
background and nutrition or
fitness credentials and ask for
references before signing on.
Steer clear of coaches who offer
quick fixes or dispense medical
advice. Online programs we
like include diabetesstrong.com
and mysugr.com. ■diabetic living MAY/JUNE 2019 101relationships