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Type 1 My friend got diagnosed with type one, how could I support him?

  • Thread starter Thread starter JamesChaplin
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JamesChaplin

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Hello everyone, I am new to the forum. My friend was diagnosed with type one diabetes about a month ago. He is going through a hard time, and I guess I want to support him through this, as I can see it being a challenge to adjust to something like diabetes. I was wondering if people could give me some tips on how I could help him and support him. I understand the basics, but I guess I want to know how to be a good friend.
 
Just be there for him to rant at and talk to about it (without judging).

One thing I think is important is, dont change the way you are around him or how you treat him & dont exclude him from things just because he is diabetic.

Maybe offer to go to clinic with him so he knows he has your support. X
 
Hi James
welcome to the forum
your friend will be going through a hard time - he will be grieving for the loss in his life and and may be struggling to cope with the enormity of what faces him.
you just being there and talking and listening will help a lot.

1 practical bit of help as well -- carry some jelly babies or fruit pastilles with you as back up in case he forgets em.:)
 
No1 rule is treat your friend as before diabetes No2 what ever you do don't keep asking if he has tested or taken his insulin.
Also ask what he needs in support from you and what you as a friend need to do if he needs help with a hypo (low blood sugar)
 
Do you know any other diabetics close to you such as family members, work colleagues, neighbours or other friends that are doing well with the illness.

If the opportunity arises mention them. It will help if he realises that there are many others out there living positively with diabetes as he will probably at this moment feel lost and feeling that he is on his own,

Also for me @mammamia2006 advice is spot on !
 
Aren't you lovely...I so wish I'd had a friend like you when I was diagnosed.

There's no right or wrong way of supporting someone when just diagnosed...everyone deals with it so differently...for me...I sat and cried for a few weeks before finally getting my head out of my a*** and getting on with it. Give him time to get his head around it but make it clear that you're willing to listen as and when he's ready...but be patient with him...we all deal with things differently and it could be some time before he's ready to talk or share his feelings...if at all.

As @CarbsRok said also in rule No 1...don't bug him about testing and injecting...he know's he has to do it and while it's meant as concern/support...it's just plain annoying in my view
 
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