To care for your child you must care for yourself.
Diabetes takes a lot of time and energy so it’s normal to feel frustrated and tired from the constant daily demands of management.
Your emotions may change and recur (perhaps frequently) – guilt, frustration, helplessness, sadness, anger … and elation when all goes according to plan!
- Try and talk to someone who may understand.
- Share your feelings with your partner, a friend or relative, support groups, your doctor, other health professionals such as a social worker or psychologist.
- Share diabetes-related tasks with your partner, supportive family members or friends.
- Keep in touch with your educator, as ongoing education can help you and your child at different stages.
- Don’t be afraid to ask your health professional team for support and guidance.
- Encourage relatives or friends to attend education sessions and/or support groups to learn more about diabetes so that they may in turn give you support.
- Find some time for yourself. It’s a worthwhile investment for the daily demands of parenting.