Asking for help
Asking for help can be one of the most difficult things to do. People who have independently managed their diabetes for a long time are very self-reliant and they believe they know their diabetes best – this is usually true!
The thought of asking for help as you get older can be daunting and it’s easy to put it off, which can lead to greater problems. You can soon find yourself in a vicious cycle whereby it becomes even more difficult to ask for help. If someone needs help managing their diabetes, the first obstacle to overcome is working out who to turn to.
Who can you talk to if you need help managing your diabetes?
- You may feel it is easiest to ask a loved one or family member to help – for example, they could give injections or check glucose levels.
- You may want to speak to friends, especially if you are concerned about hurting your family members’ feelings. Friends can often help shed new light on problems and make them appear simpler.
- You could ask your diabetes nurse or doctor. They are likely to know your diabetes and your situation well, putting them in a good position to offer support and advice.
- Organisations such as Diabetes UK and Age UK are often good starting places. You can approach them anonymously if you think this will help.
The earlier the problem is raised for discussion, the earlier someone can begin to help manage or resolve it. Remember, “a problem shared is a problem halved”.
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All need help sometimes