Get Support

Friends and family can help

Being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes is not easy. It can take time to adjust to and affect how you feel.

Telling people you have diabetes can be difficult, but it'll help them understand what you're going through.

Friends, family and colleagues can give you support and encouragement when you have just been diagnosed or you're struggling to manage it.

Coronavirus advice

Get updates about coronavirus and diabetes from Diabetes UK

Speak to others with type 1 diabetes

There are many people with type 1 diabetes offering support and sharing their stories on forums, social media and in group meetings.

You do not have to talk to others in online groups, but it can be helpful to look.

Important

Comments on social media are often based on personal experience and should not be taken as medical advice.

Always check with your diabetes team before changing how you manage your diabetes.

Helpful social media channels and conversations

A good place to start is the groups run by diabetes charities.

There's also the diabetes online community (#DOC). This is a group of people with diabetes and healthcare professionals.

You do not have to sign up to see what people are saying. But bear in mind that the NHS does not monitor these sites.

Face-to-face support groups

Diabetes UK has regular meet-ups.

Find a Diabetes UK support group near you

It's also worth asking your diabetes team if they know of any local groups.

Diabetes helpline

Diabetes UK has a confidential helpline for questions about day-to-day management.

Call: 0345 123 2399 Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm

Email: helpline@diabetes.org.uk

Get psychological help

Managing type 1 diabetes can be hard. Constantly trying to meet blood glucose targets can lead to a feeling of "burn out".

If you're feeling low and struggling to cope, you might be able to get psychological help.

If there's not a psychologist on your diabetes team, you might be able to get support locally. It can help you cope with the challenges of living with a condition.

You can ask a GP what's available or you might be able to refer yourself.

Search for support in your area. Choose a service and refer yourself by either filling out a form on their website or calling them. You can only use services associated with your GP surgery.

Find an NHS talking therapies service

If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.