Psychologist Katherine Dixon talks to people living with type 1 diabetes on a range of emotional issues. She says there are several common concerns that callers frequently discuss.

• People sometimes feel they are the only ones struggling. Yet the issues are often common and can be helped by existing support networks and facilities.
• Many people who are usually on top of their diabetes may face times of unusual stress, for example, work pressure or illness that can make them feel overwhelmed. Diabetes needs to be managed every day, irrespective of what else is happening in our lives, and sometimes extra stress is the proverbial straw that breaks the camel’s back. Support can make goals feel more achievable at these times.
• Lack of or inappropriate support and understanding from family, friends or colleagues can add extra stress to someone managing their diabetes.
• Fear of hypoglycaemia weighs heavily on some people, especially if they are trying to get fit or are considering training for a tough event, such as a marathon.
• Young adults can feel they have been well supported as children but cast adrift when they are moved on from their paediatric team and hospital support network.
• People who are of a higher weight may feel their loved ones or health professionals are not supportive of their right to make their own choices, including what food they eat.
• Sometimes, despite a person’s best efforts, their diabetes becomes less stable.
• Some people who are living in rural or isolated areas do not have support services or people around them who understand diabetes.
• Cost of diabetes treatments and technology, especially incurred by Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) consumables and pumps, is a topic of great concern.
• People who come from different cultures, who may or may not have language barriers, can experience limited access to adequate support.
• Support for families of children with type 1. The constant fear of complications can weigh heavily.

Katherine encourages anyone who feels that they would benefit from emotional support or advice to reach out when they need it.

Ring 1800 177 055 to make an appointment with the Diabetes Counselling Service.