Managing diabetes alone is one thing.
But when it impacts a loved one, it becomes even more personal.
Whether it’s a spouse, child, parent or other family member, dealing with diabetes is never easy.
The good news is that studies have shown that a strong family support system can help patients better manage the disease, keep things under control and bring families closer together.
Diabetes Effect on the Patient
People diagnosed with diabetes experience a wide range of physical symptoms and emotions – fear, anger, depression, denial, shock and guilt. It’s an emotional and physical rollercoaster that affects not only the patient, but everyone around them. Diabetes takes both a mental and physical toll and creates a wide range of emotions. It’s important to understand the many feelings and experiences that a diabetes patient may undergo.
- ● Fear of serious health complications and other unknowns associated with living with diabetes
- ● Constant stress of keeping diabetes under control
- ● Concern over preventing blood sugar emergencies
- ● Feeling like a burden to other family members
- ● Worry over the financial struggles of dealing with insurance and medical coverage
Understanding Everyone’s Part
Every family is different. It’s important to understand each other’s roles and plan accordingly. There is so much that can be done together, but it’s also important to recognize when space is needed. It’s vital to keep lines of communication open to avoid unnecessary conflict and misunderstandings.
Managing diabetes requires a complete life change for all family members involved. Diabetes may require a change in diet, exercise, sleep, daily routines and overall mental health. It’s important to talk about any stressors that result from these significant life changes. The good news is that there are many ways to strengthen your bond as you learn to navigate this new normal together.
Developing a Plan
Managing diabetes may seem uncontrollable which is why it’s important to create a family plan and communicate often. Education is key and the better a family can understand diabetes together, the better it can be managed. It’s important to learn the facts about diabetes and understand the details. All family members should learn about the danger of high and low blood sugar levels and the relationship between food, diet and exercise. Introducing family members to the many resources available is pivotal to managing diabetes as a cohesive unit.
Be supportive, encouraging and work together to set goals. Setting small goals, identifying barriers and overcoming obstacles together as a family can create a healthier and happier life. Most importantly be patient because there will always be ups and downs and highs and lows.
Continuous Glucose Monitors Create Peace of Mind
Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGM), like the FreeStyle Libre, can help to create peace of mind for all family members. Living with diabetes is often compared to riding a roller coaster. Depending on the situation, levels can change throughout the day with many ups and downs. Glucose readings can be affected by a number of normal, everyday activities like eating, exercising and sleeping. CGMs report current glucose readings along with a trend arrow. The trend arrow tells what direction glucose is heading and the speed in which it is moving so patients and family members know what to do next and provide peace of mind to everyone.
CGMs work 24/7 to keep patients safe and in control – even while sleeping. Alarms can be set to alert family members when glucose is too high or too low with a preset tone, adjustable volume and vibration option. When in danger, this alarm will let everyone know something is wrong.
Knowing When Help Is Needed
Sometimes all the planning in the world doesn’t help and families can feel out of sorts. Whether the diagnosis is new or affects more than one family member, adding a third party for additional support may be a necessary option. Communicating with family members, confiding in friends, talking to others in similar situations or seeking professional help from medical specialists, dieticians and counselors is often a viable alternative.
Receiving a diabetes diagnosis does not have to derail one’s life and family relationships and bonds. Communicating regularly, expressing support and working together to solve issues can increase the odds of successfully managing diabetes and protecting relationships.
Living with diabetes takes daily effort, a strong support system and continual education. Finding the answers is not always easy but knowing where to start is the key. Establishing a pool of trusted resources that can be accessed at any time is an important first step to creating a strong support system. At Quest Health Solutions, we vow to be one of those trusted resources always. To learn more, contact us at 1-800-993-9996, email ben@questhealthsolutions.com or schedule an appointment today.