How to help a friend with diabetes:
“I would like to know to help and support a friend who has diabetes. My friend is a Type 1 diabetic and I’m not always sure how to help him in the tough times.” Markus Vorster
Hi Markus,
You have not said how old your friend is, but much of the basics stay the same. Here are 7 ways to support your friend with diabetes.
- First of all, treat your friend like anyone else. It is important for him to realise that his diabetes makes absolutely no difference to your friendship. If your friend is having trouble accepting his condition, be supportive and understanding.
- Try not to ‘mother’ him, but do encourage him to look after himself.
- Understand that people with diabetes are more prone to mood swings and depression than those who do not have diabetes.
- Learn to be able to recognise when his blood sugar goes too low, and know what to do in case he needs help.
- Remember, really tough times for diabetics are when they are sick. Blood glucose levels bounce up and down and this makes them feel more ill.
- Give him all your support by understanding his condition to the best of your ability.
- Get the facts and go beyond the myths and misinformation by talking to your friend, your doctor, or relatives who have diabetes.
As a friend, your understanding and acceptance are very important. The more you understand his circumstances, the less alone your friend is likely to feel.
Empathise, but never sympathise.
Good luck!
– Jeannie Berg, Diabetes Educator
Teens with Type 1
Teenagers with Type 1 diabetes feel especially isolated and alone. It’s bad enough dealing with body changes and hormonal issues, but add to that testing blood sugar, keeping tabs on what you eat and injecting yourself, as well as mood swings, and you can see why teens with Type 1 have a lot to deal with. Understanding what goes into diabetes means you can help your teen feel less self-conscious and different from everyone else.
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