Diabetes Awareness Week 2008 - Coming Soon
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07 July 2008
Low GI diet reduces cancer risk
 
A new Italian study says a low Glycemic Index diet may reduce the risk of developing cancer.
 
02 July 2008
Medicare item looks to prevention
 
The Federal Government has introduced a new Medicare item aimed at identifying people at high risk of type 2 diabetes and stopping the disease before it is diagnosed.
 
03 July 2008
Diabetes link for men whose sisters have PCOS
 
Men whose sisters have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) are at higher risk of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
 
26 June 2008
People with type 1 satisfied with newer insulins
 
People with type 1 diabetes who take the newer insulin analogues report greater satisfaction and better quality of life.
 

Helping a family member or friend who has diabetes

Diabetes diagnosis usually comes as a shock and unwelcome surprise to most people.

Emotions such as anger, sadness, grief, denial, loss, relief and fear may be experienced at this time. If these emotions become too difficult to deal with, it is important to seek professional assistance.

Often, it’s not only the newly diagnosed who may require time to adjust to the diagnosis, but family and friends may also need time to deal with the news. You may be one of many who supports someone with diabetes. You may need to work through these feelings and find a place where you feel comfortable discussing them.

The diagnosis and treatment of diabetes involves complex recommendations, including healthy eating, physical activity, medication, blood glucose management and weight control, which all play a part in working to avoid diabetes-related complications.

Family and friends are an important part of everyday life but when someone has diabetes that encouragement and support can become vital.

The following points are designed to help you, help others.

Learn about diabetes and its treatment
• Attend an education session (Speak with your GP or to Diabetes Australia-NSW)
• Obtain and read educational material from a recognised source such as Diabetes Australia-NSW.
• Become a member of Diabetes Australia-NSW and receive ongoing information and support.
• Remain aware of diabetes management recommendations.

Take time to discuss feelings
• Share how you feel (through family, friends, professional counselling).
• Listen to your loved ones' concerns.
• Talk with your health care provider (GP, Diabetes Educator).
• Do something that you enjoy.

Avoid unrealistic expectations
• Perfect behaviour is not possible.
• Realistic expectations create positive feelings.
• Raised blood glucose levels are not always behaviour-related.

Provide effective support
• Be aware everyone has a different experience with diabetes.
• Be aware of personal treatment recommendations.
• Have a good laugh together - humour is a great medicine!
• Join a diabetes support group.

There are many services available to assist you with these important issues. Call Diabetes Australia-NSW on 1300 136 588, Contact Us or visit a Diabetes Educator, your GP or your Local Community Health Centre. Speak with your health care team if you have any questions.

 

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Cycle of care
A guide to managing your diabetes.
Risk reduction book
Reduce your risk of diabetes or complications with this helpful book.
DIAS
Available to NDSS Sub-Agents to assist in providing accurate information about diabetes.
Health and Educations Events
Ways to improve management
Managing Diabetic Foot Disease Together: Diabetic Foot Symposium
Foot Management Seminar
Downloads and links
Find useful fact sheets, links and downloads.