How to Help a Loved One Cope with Diabetes
(http://ndep.nih.gov/media/NDEP
57_HelpALovedOne_4c_508.pdf)
When people have the support of their family and friends, they are able to better manage their diabetes.
Learn about diabetes.
There is a lot to learn about how people can live well with diabetes. Use what you learn to help your loved one manage his or her diabetes.
- Ask your loved one to teach you about how he or she is managing diabetes.
- Join a support group—in person or online—about living with diabetes. Check with your hospital or area health clinic to find one.
- Read about diabetes online. Visit www.YourDiabetesInfo.org.
- Ask your loved one’s health care team how you can learn more about managing diabetes.
Ask your loved one about coping with diabetes and how you can help.
Sample questions:
- Do you ever feel down or overwhelmed about all you have to do to manage your diabetes?
- Have you set goals to manage your diabetes?
- What things seem to get in the way of reaching your goals?
- What can I do to help? (Eg.: Are there things I can do to make it easier for you to live with diabetes? If you want to be more active, will it help if we take walks together?)
- Have you talked to your health care team about your diabetes care and how you want to reach your goals?
How you can help.
- Find ways to help your loved one manage the stress of living with diabetes. Being a good listener is often the most important thing you can do to help.
- Ask your loved one if he or she would like reminders about doctor visits, when to check blood sugar, and when to take medicine.
- Help your loved one write a list of questions for the health care team.
- Eat well. Help your loved one make meals that include foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Find things you can do together such as walking, dancing, or gardening. Being active is a great way to handle stress.