There is so much to think about when you are working to keep diabetes under control. Having the help of your family or friends is appreciated; however, it sometimes doesn't get communicated that way. There are times when it seems like the helper is unknowledgeable or nagging. Keep in mind that diabetes is a frustrating disease that is permanent. It is often difficult to deal with it's the highs and lows --- literally. The disease is also confusing and requires much patience and knowledge. The following are tips for family members to do together with the person suffering with diabetes to show your support and acknowledgement of the difficulties of the disease:

•  Write out all the steps it takes to manage diabetes – You'll be surprised at how much there is to do!

•  See if there is any task you can share with your family member (join an exercise program together, keep junk food out of the house, finding new diabetic recipes, making or packing your snacks, etc.)

•  Every couple of months, re-asses the list of steps and discuss how things are going for you and if there is anything else that can be done to help you manage the diabetes.

•  Acknowledge and keep in mind the emotions linked with diabetes: frustration, anger, confusion, disbelief, sadness, etc.

•  Let your partner know if things they do, like asking you things in public make you uncomfortable or embarrassed.

•  Answer questions before they are asked of you. Let them know what your glucose level was and what, if anything, you are going to do about it.

As the saying goes, “Knowledge is Power.” If you or a loved one is suffering from diabetes the more you know the more successful managing diabetes will be. Use our website for latest diabetes news & information and sign up for our enewsletter to receive our monthly bulletin for tips and more! You are also welcome to Ask Dr. Litvin for his expert advice on anything you would like to know about diabetes or you can set up an appointment to see him as a patient.