DAWN2 Shows Impact of Diabetes Distress on Family Members
Diabetes is not just something that happens to one person – it happens to a whole family. Parents, siblings, spouses, partners, grandparents, friends and loved ones, are all affected. I clearly remember how my sister had to suffer the restricted “diabetic diet” of the 1980’s when I was diagnosed and the extra attention and worries heaped upon and around my life…I also know my parents had to deal with their grief and anxiety about my future while I challenged the restrictions placed upon me. Diabetes is certainly a central part of our lives and my children and husband have no choice but to come along for the ride. A recent study, DAWN2 shows impact of diabetes distress on family members of people with diabetes, and that there are negative impact of diabetes on quality of life not only for people who have diabetes, but also on the lives of family members.
There must be open communication between the person living with diabetes and their families – we wrote about this recently and have more information here. Most importantly set up a channel of communication where everyone can share their feelings and understands their role diabetes plays in your lives,and don’t lock each other out.
Are your family members involved in your diabetes?
Helen x