This series of five videos discusses topics related to receiving support in your journey with diabetes. These videos are also beneficial for those who are acting as support persons.

Self Advocacy: Deaf and hard of hearing individuals have the right to clear communication with healthcare providers under the ADA.  They should request interpreters or accommodations at the time of appointment scheduling and advocate for their preferred communication method, including ASL interpreters, CDIs, VRIs, or captioning services.  If denied, individuals should send a letter of request and pursue legal action if necessary.

What is a Support Person?: A support person, typically a family member or friend, plays a crucial role in managing diabetes successfully. They can assist with tasks like grocery shopping, meal preparation, medication management, and monitoring blood sugar levels. However, support persons should avoid overprotectiveness, nagging, aggressive body language, and criticism, as these behaviors can hinder the person with diabetes’s independence and well-being.

Coping: Diabetes can have a significant impact on mental and emotional health, leading to conditions like depression, anxiety, and diabetes distress. Learning to cope with diabetes is crucial, involving strategies like maintaining calmness, achieving clarity, cultivating competence, seeking support, demonstrating courage, and practicing self-compassion.  Seeking help from a clinician is essential for managing these conditions and improving overall well-being.

Communicating Diabetes at Home: Diabetes can impact communication due to fluctuating glucose levels and mental health concerns like depression, anxiety, and diabetes distress.  To improve communication, establish a routine, focus on the person with diabetes’s health, and use open-ended questions and “I” statements.  During crises, be direct and prioritize safety, then check in with emotions afterward.

Setting up for Long-term Success: Managing diabetes involves a combination of healthy habits, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and medication, as well as lifestyle changes and support from family and friends.  Key skills for long-term success include setting SMART goals, practicing healthy coping mechanisms, and seeking support when needed.  Taking action and repeating these steps will lead to better diabetes management over time.