DiabetesIt is a chronic condition that requires daily treatment. It can become a mental, physical, social and financial burden. A diabetes diagnosis can feel lonely and isolating, especially in the early stages.
It is important to know that no matter where you are in your diabetes journey, you are never alone. In addition to your medical teamLover, and friends, there are numerous diabetes support groups available.
This article tells you more about where to find themsupport groups, both online and in person. It describes the meaning ofsupport from friends, nifty apps and additional resources.
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Where to find diabetes support groups
Colleagues bring down-to-earth experiences, resources, and advice that your healthcare provider may not be able to share.
In a joint report, the American Diabetes Association (ADA), the Association of Diabetes Education and Care Specialists (ADCES), and the American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AAND) recognize the importance of continued support.
This support comes from your GP team, but also from family and friends, specialized services at home and in the community. A small but growing body of evidence shows the value of peer support in clinical and behavioral outcomes in diabetes.
You can find support groups, both online and in person. In addition, many professional organizations have forums, mentoring programs, and other ways to get involved with diabetes.
Online
Online peer support communities are becoming increasingly popular. Participation in these groups offers benefits in addition to treatment. You can learn more about diabetes and connect with people involved in ongoing diabetes peer support.
Blogs, podcasts, social media and online platforms can serve as helpful sources. Many people with diabetes, including educators, write blogs or host podcasts. Facebook, Twitter, Reddit, Instagram, and Pinterest give people the power to interact with each other and share ideas and information.Several support groups have interactive discussion forums.
You can search the internet for keywords like:
- Self-help groups for diabetics
- PWD (support groups for people with diabetes)
- The Type 2 Experience: Facebook Group
- Hashtags that can lead you to social media groups: #DOC, #T1D, #T2D, #DSMA, #DIABETES, #peersupport, #type1diabetes, #type2diabetes, #wearenotwaiting, #nightscout
- American Diabetes Association: Diabetes Support Directory
- Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF)
- Beyond type1.orgjBeyond tipo2.org, targeted websites that connect you directly with people living with diabetes, and community tabletop conversations
Other sites with global forums and support communities are:
- t1dexchange.org
- t1dregistry.org
- tudiabetes.org
- diabetesdaily.com
- diatriba.org
- diabulimiahelpline.org
- www.equipodediabetes.com
- kidswithdiabetes.com
- collegediabetesnetwork.org
- weareddiabetes.org
- idocroconsejo.com
- Peersforprogress.org
- hermanasdiabetes.org
- tcoyd.org
Sometimes it is not clear which online sources are credible, trustworthy and factual. If you use online information from your colleagues, it is advisable not to use it as medical advice. If you are unsure or skeptical about the validity of the information, discuss this with yourmedical equipment.
Personal
Historically, healthcare providers and diabetes counselors have worked with people in groups. This served as a particularly useful platform for learning, socializing and connecting people. Unfortunately, safety precautions have made in-person groups rare during the COVID-19 pandemic.
It never hurts to ask your healthcare provider about restarting, especially as more communities reopen. You may also consider starting groups through telemedicine or telemedicine.
You can also search for programs in your community, e.g. B. healthy cooking classes, walking groups, religious groups and more. Consider checking your local newsletter, library, or community center for ideas.
Benefits of diabetes support groups
Diabetes is difficult because the treatment is so complex. Many people with diabetes face treatment barriers. These barriers can include:
- Cost
- Time
- Transport
- medical problems
- cultural factors
- lack of family support.
- Preference to keep diabetes private
Diabetic support groups can provide people with information and emotional support that is consistent, compassionate, and nonjudgmental.
Some people may feel uncomfortable and do not want to actively participate. Instead, they just listen. Studies have shown that this type of information search is still productive. People benefit from information while learning that they are not alone simply by reading content from others.
Peer Support for Diabetes
Peer support is a community. It is an association that helps people with diabetes to feel understood and provides them with information that they otherwise would not have access to. For example, many diabetics do not always understand what services they are entitled to.
If you are currently struggling with obstacles, peers who have overcome them can offer valuable advice. This can help you face situations with less stress and anxiety. Colleagues can also give you recommendations on products, technologies, doctors and more.
Research suggests that peer support leads to feelings of empowerment, improved self-care, eating healthier and reading food labels.The value of peer support in lowering hemoglobin A1c, weight and blood pressure is mixed, but there appears to be benefit in some minorities.
Despite the benefits, peer support is underused.Health professionals will likely continue to advocate for and explore peer support to make it more accessible and available to people with diabetes.
Please note that while peer support is beneficial, it is not a substitute for medical advice from trained professionals.
Downloadable apps that help with diabetes
Apps are simple and convenient sources of information. They are accessible anytime and anywhere.
According to researchers, diabetes is one of the top categories on the iTunes App Store for iOS and Google Play for Android, with more than 1,100 different apps available for download.
Due to the enormous range of applications and the complexity of diabetes, this makes the selection a difficult task. Some apps are intended for healthcare providers. Others are designed to help people calculate their insulin doses, carbs, and blood sugar.
If you are looking for emotional or behavioral support from your colleagues, there are dedicated communication apps. Some of the apps that you can connect with your diabetes peers, as well as forums, communities and websites are:
- Beyond Type 1
- A drop
- HelpAround
- we are more
additional resources
community basedfundraisersand events can be another way to get involved and connect with members of the community. Organizations like the American Diabetes Association, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and the Betes Foundation are just a few that offer you opportunities to gather information and take action to improve your health.
Diabetes non-profit organizations are also great resources. Countless information on all topics related to diabetes can be found in the following places:
- ADCES: Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists
- ADA: American Diabetes Association
- DLC: Diabetes Leadership Council
- DPAC: Diabetes Patient Advocacy Coalition
- JDRF: Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
Summary
Diabetes is a chronic disease that requires daily self-monitoring. Diabetes support groups can serve as an invaluable resource for people living with diabetes.
Peer support groups are available both in person and online. You can leverage resources and relationships through websites and social media. You may also want to connect with people and groups in your community.
Please note that peer support groups are not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Be sure to ask your doctor if you have any questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What else can I do besides self-help groups to get my diabetes under control?
All people with diabetes should receive Diabetes Self Management Education (DSME) and Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) for their management and support. If these terms are new to you, please discuss them with your medical team. You can also call your insurance company to identify accredited programs and professionals in your community.
(Video) A support group for college kids with diabetesCan you find diabetes support groups with people your own age?
Various forums, groups, podcasts, and online communities serve specific age groups. For example, the JDRF focuses primarily on children.
Do diabetes support groups cost money?
Personal support groups may require a co-payment depending on how they are set up and who runs them. Many online support groups are available to people with diabetes for free. Some apps and programs require a small monthly fee.