Providing Support
We all know that we have the confidence to do our best when we have support and encouragement from the ones we love.
No one wants to handle a condition like diabetes alone. That's why it is important for you to understand your role as a caregiver or loved one of someone with diabetes.
Families come in all sizes, shapes, and descriptions - traditional, single parent, blended, alternative, and makeshift. With awareness and education, we can balance our emotions through all the changes a family experiences. A family that functions well considers the mental and physical well being of each person in the family.
Support is not about fixing.
It is about being there. A person with diabetes needs supportive people who will be available throughout the changes, and also throughout the highs and lows he or she may experience. Support may be offered through challenge, advice, and listening. Knowing when and how to motivate your loved one to do what is best in managing his or her diabetes, will help your loved one get through a low period. Giving advice, when it is asked for, and taking the time to truly hear and understand what is being said without giving advice, lets your loved one know you are really there for them.
Giving support to others may also benefit you.
Supporting others can help you balance your outlook. It also may give you a boost of energy and purpose.
If someone you love has diabetes, then you may feel overwhelmed.
Keep in mind that you cannot do everything for your loved one. It's important to remember to take care of yourself by maintaining a healthy lifestyle or by talking with a friend, a family member, or a counselor about your feelings.
Encouragement
Shame and embarrassment are not good motivators in diabetes care, unless you want anger and conflict. Respect and caring about the individual must come first.
People with diabetes are in charge of their own diabetes care. You cannot do everything for them, but you can help. Your support can make a big difference.
Here are some tips to guide you:
- Ask! "What can I do to help you?"
- Listen. Your loved one can tell you how you can help. Sometimes just listening, allowing your loved one to voice his or her concerns or vent their frustrations is all that is needed.
- Offer Support. Instead of telling your loved one what to do, offer support. No one likes to be nagged.
- Learn. Learn more about diabetes. Read about diabetes on your own. Try going along with your loved one when he or she goes to a diabetes class.
- Work together. Think of ways that everyone can exercise together, like everyone taking a walk or going on a family bike ride. This may be a good time for the whole family to evaluate their own physical activity or food choices, and make changes to take better care of themselves.
