Did you know that there are many, many support groups for people managing diabetes?
Diabetes is the fastest growing chronic condition in Australia; increasing at a faster rate than other chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. All types of diabetes are increasing in prevalence:
- Type 1 diabetes accounts for 10% of all diabetes and is increasing
- Type 2 diabetes accounts for 85% of all diabetes and is increasing
- Gestational diabetes in pregnancy is increasing
Sharing experiences is a powerful way of learning how to manage diabetes. Meeting other people with diabetes can help reduce the isolation that people may feel and be a source of support when needed.
Support groups can provide valuable emotional, psychological, and practical support for individuals facing various challenges, including those related to health conditions like diabetes. Here's how support groups can help:
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Emotional Support:
- Connecting with others who are going through similar experiences can help you feel understood and less alone. You can share your thoughts, feelings, and struggles without fear of judgment.
- Support groups provide a safe space to express your emotions, which can be especially important when dealing with a chronic condition like diabetes.
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Sharing Information and Experiences:
- Members of support groups often share information, insights, and personal experiences related to managing their condition. This exchange of knowledge can provide practical tips and strategies that you might not have considered.
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Validation and Empowerment:
- Interacting with others who understand your challenges can validate your feelings and experiences. This validation can boost your confidence and self-esteem, helping you feel more empowered to manage your condition.
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Learning from Others:
- Support groups often have members who have been managing their condition for a longer time. Learning from their successes, failures, and coping strategies can be incredibly valuable.
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Reduced Isolation:
- Dealing with a chronic condition can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation. Joining a support group helps you connect with others who are facing similar challenges, reducing feelings of loneliness.
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Peer Role Models:
- Seeing others who have successfully managed their condition can serve as role models and inspire you to take control of your health.
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Coping Strategies:
- Support groups can provide practical advice for managing stress, dealing with emotional challenges, and handling the day-to-day demands of your condition.
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Access to Resources:
- Group members often share resources such as books, websites, apps, and tools that have been helpful in managing their condition.
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Motivation and Accountability:
- Being part of a support group can provide motivation to stick to your treatment plan and healthy habits. You might feel more accountable when you know others are supporting and rooting for your success.
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Opportunity to Give Back:
- As you gain experience in managing your condition, you can offer guidance and support to newer members of the group. This can be a rewarding way to give back and contribute to the community.
Support groups can be in-person or online, depending on your preferences and circumstances. If you're interested in joining a support group for diabetes or any other health condition, you can ask your healthcare provider, search online, or check with local organizations. Remember that everyone's experience is unique, so finding the right group that aligns with your needs and goals is important for getting the most out of the experience.
Each state has a list of support groups via their Diabetes Organisation websites.Below is the Diabetes Vic list:
https://www.diabetesvic.org.au/support-groups
And below is Diabetes Australia website where you'll be able to find the support groups in your state.