“Do you want to take this medicine?” “I saw this article online and it said that people with diabetes need ……” “Have you measured your blood sugar today?”
People with diabetes may have heard similar questions from relatives and friends who seem to think that by talking about this, they can help the person manage their condition better.
How can these people with good intentions be taught to provide the help they really need, not the help they think they need?
Busting misconceptions through education: “There are a lot of misconceptions about diabetes, and people don’t know what’s right and what’s wrong,” says Dawn Sherr, program manager for the American Diabetes Education Association. “For spouses, family members or close friends, they can be encouraged to participate in diabetes education or go to the office together to better understand the treatment of diabetes.”
Make it clear to friends and family what these concerns mean for them: Some people feel helped by hearing reminders about what they should eat or buy at the store, for example, while others don’t. Elizabeth Mwanga, owner of a healthcare technology company, says, “If someone asks me if I took my blood sugar today, I think that means they care, but for some patients, it may feel like nagging.” So it’s important for patients to explain to friends and family exactly what help is best for them.
Involving family and friends in treatment: “If you’ve just been diagnosed with diabetes and plan to make lifestyle changes through exercise and healthy eating, involve relatives and friends,” Sherr says. Making lifestyle changes a group activity will make friends and family feel like they are making a difference and see the effort the patient is making.
Reminders are just baby steps: “Just because some people are diagnosed with diabetes doesn’t mean it’s going to change their lives overnight,” Sherr says. “It’s important for those around you to know that.”
Being honest with yourself: A quick moment of introspection doesn’t do any harm. Does it bother you to be annoyed by the comments because they are often pertinent advice?
Show gratitude to those who care: Most of the time, people care about the condition out of concern and love, not to cause pain to the sufferer. “Tell your husband, mom, or best friend: Your concern means a lot to me, and I know you want me to be healthy, and I’m well aware of that.”
The following questions can be asked of your doctor:
- Can you help patients get a handle on treating their diabetes?
- To what extent can diabetes be controlled? What are the most important things to look for?
- How should I talk to my partner and family about diabetes?
- How should I talk to my partner and family about diabetes?
- What do I need to keep in mind if I still want to eat normal meals with friends and family?
- Does diabetes affect my sex life?