How to Support Someone with Type 1 Diabetes

Supporting someone you love who has type 1 diabetes (T1D) might feel overwhelming at first, but it doesn’t have to be. The fact that you’re here, reading and learning, shows that you care, and that’s a great start. Living with T1D can be tough, but having supportive people around makes all the difference. Let’s walk through some practical, meaningful ways you can be there for them.

Educate Yourself About Type 1 Diabetes

First things first: understanding the basics of type 1 diabetes can go a long way. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Without insulin, the body can’t regulate blood sugar levels, which means people with T1D have to carefully manage their condition every day.

Take some time to learn the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes—they’re not the same. Understanding key terms like insulin, blood sugar, and hypoglycemia can help you feel more confident in supporting your loved one. There are tons of great resources online, like the JDRF and American Diabetes Association, that can help you get up to speed.

I have a book for parents and family members who are going through a child’s new Type 1 diabetes diagnosis! It covers all of the things that doctors don’t tell you.

Communicate and Listen

Everyone’s experience with T1D is different, so one of the best things you can do is ask how they’d like to be supported. Some people prefer to manage their condition independently, while others appreciate having someone to lean on.

When they share what they’re going through, listen without judgment. Avoid offering unsolicited advice or repeating common myths about diabetes (“Did you get diabetes from eating too much sugar?” is a big no-no). Simply being there as a sounding board can mean a lot.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

Emergencies like low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) or high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) can happen, and knowing how to respond can make a huge difference. Learn the signs of hypoglycemia—like shakiness, sweating, confusion, or irritability—and what to do. Often, the solution is as simple as helping them eat or drink something sugary.

Ask them about their emergency plan and where they keep supplies like glucose tablets, juice boxes, or glucagon. Being prepared can give you both peace of mind.

Support Their Daily Management

Managing T1D involves a lot of behind-the-scenes work, like monitoring blood sugar, taking insulin, and planning meals. If they’re open to it, offer to help in small but meaningful ways. This could mean preparing a diabetes-friendly snack, being flexible with plans if they need to stop and check their blood sugar, or even just being patient when they’re managing their condition.

Sometimes, just acknowledging the effort they put in to stay healthy can go a long way. Living with T1D can feel exhausting, so a little encouragement can make their day.

Offer Emotional Support

Type 1 diabetes isn’t just physically challenging—it can take a toll emotionally, too. Let them know you’re there for them, especially on tough days when they might feel frustrated or burned out.

Be patient and understanding during moments of stress, like when they’re dealing with a high or low blood sugar episode. Celebrate their victories, whether it’s maintaining good blood sugar levels or trying out a new treatment. Your positivity can help lighten their load.

Avoid Unnecessary Pressure

It’s important to strike a balance between being supportive and being overbearing. Don’t police their food choices or insulin doses—trust that they know their body best. Offering gentle reminders is fine if they’ve asked for it, but avoid making them feel like their condition defines them or that they’re a burden.

Be an Advocate

One of the most impactful things you can do is advocate for them. This could mean helping raise awareness about T1D in your community, joining them for diabetes fundraisers or walks, or simply correcting misinformation when you hear it.

Standing up against stigma and educating others about type 1 diabetes helps create a more understanding world for everyone living with the condition.

Take Care of Yourself, Too

Supporting someone with T1D can be emotionally demanding at times, so don’t forget to take care of yourself. Set healthy boundaries to avoid burnout, and don’t hesitate to reach out to support groups or resources for loved ones of people with diabetes. Remember, you’re part of their support system, and staying strong helps both of you.

Conclusion

Supporting someone with type 1 diabetes doesn’t mean you have to be perfect. It’s about being present, understanding, and doing what you can to make their journey a little easier. Even small gestures, like learning about their condition or asking how they’re feeling, can have a big impact.

So take it one step at a time. You’re doing an amazing thing by being there for your loved one, and your support makes all the difference. Together, you can navigate the ups and downs of type 1 diabetes with strength and compassion.