On in a series of information articles published as part of Diabetes Awareness Month.
The emotional well-being of a person with diabetes directly impacts their own self-care, and studies have shown that improved support of any kind can lead to positive outcomes.
So, this week’s column is all about finding the proper support you need for diabetes management and encouraging people to help advocate for effective change.
Managing diabetes can be a lot of work, but this does not mean it needs to be done alone. Diabetes is a 24/7 disease, and that means making important management decisions anytime, anywhere. Working with a diabetes care and education specialist or other healthcare professional is key, but so is connecting with others who have the disease. Peer support communities, both online and in-person, can help fill in the gap of continuing support. It takes a village!
Step up and thrive by taking action, offering support, participating in local diabetes events, donating to diabetes research, advocating for improved care, and volunteering.
Below are just a few ways you can make changes in diabetes care and management:
Social media/blogs: Over the years many peer support communities have developed and evolved. Diabetes online communities are often referred to as “DOC.” You can easily begin to connect with other people living with diabetes via blogs or social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook.
For example, search through hashtags like #type2diabetes or #diabetes. This will help you find active groups for people with diabetes with a variety of special interests.
Other good resources include DiabetesSisters.org and www.DiabetesDaily.com.
Join the ADA: “Get everything you need to become a diabetes advocate and make an impact. Learn how to sign up as an advocate, take action, see our priorities, access resources, and more.” Find it at Diabetes.org/advocacy/grassroots-advocacy.
Stay on top of the news: “Read the latest advocacy-related press releases and get the Advocacy Insider newsletter for featured stories, legislative information and policy updates.”
Find it at Diabetes.org/advocacy/hot-press-advocacy-news-events.
Connect with Congress: “The ADA fights for people with diabetes to thrive by advocating for their rights, increased funding for diabetes programs and research, and so much more. You can join this fight by becoming an ADA Influencer. Get the opportunity to speak directly with the legislators of your state and make diabetes a priority in Congress.” Find more at: Diabetes.org/advocacy/connected-congress.
Join the Movement: “JDRF is focused on type 1 diabetes research and advocacy. Activities will include conferences and fundraising walks in cities around the US and local galas.” Learn more at www.JDRF.org and www.JDRF.org/national-diabetes-awareness-month-2021.
Advocate For Diabetes: “The Diabetes Advocacy Alliance (DAA) has public policy and legislative priorities in three areas: Prevention of type 2 diabetes; improved screening and detection of those adults with prediabetes and undiagnosed diabetes; and improved care for people whose diabetes has been diagnosed.” More at www.DiabetesAdvocacyAlliance.org.
Use your voice to help people with diabetes thrive. Stand up for diabetes research and programs, insulin affordability, diabetes prevention and help support people living with and impacted by diabetes every day!