Receiving a diabetes diagnosis for yourself is intimidating. Suddenly, your life requires significant changes to maintain a healthy body and mind, and your old way of living is off the table. Although this is difficult enough, receiving a diabetes diagnosis for your child can be devastating and terrifying, particularly as you wade through the ins and outs of Type 1 diabetes treatment and care.

What was once largely misunderstood is becoming increasingly common and—happily—understood. Type 1 treatments have come a long way in the past several decades, and insulin is no longer drawn from animals or crudely mimicked. Researchers are continually searching for longer-lasting, more effective ways of managing Type 1, and racing toward an eventual cure.

Where To Start

That being said, having a child with Type 1 diabetes is still no picnic. Between blood glucose testing, insulin administering, and creating a strict, careful diet, Type 1 treatment can be stressful and overwhelming, with competing information and countless decisions.

#1. Your Child’s Doctor

This may seem an obvious choice, but many parents fail to ask their child’s team of doctors all of the questions they have. Instead, they rely on whatever information is doled out. Don’t be afraid to ask doctors questions until you’re blue in the face and satisfied that you have the answers you need to safely and comfortably begin your child’s treatment regimen.

#2. Diabetes Support Groups

Gathering the support of other parents to talk to or rely on during this time will not only give you additional information and tricks for management but will give you a source of comfort on difficult days.

#3. Your Insurance Provider

Many people only contact their insurance providers to make a claim or file a complaint. Your insurance provider doesn’t have to be a foreign entity but can be a powerful ally. You can petition your provider for better management tools, the latest and greatest type of insulin, or even a support animal to better manage your child’s condition.

#4. Your Child

While very young children may not be able to accurately or adequately assess their physical and mental states, your child is going to be your greatest resource in determining what treatment avenues do and don’t work. Pay close attention to your child’s moods, habits, and behavior as these will give you insight into how your child behaves when his blood sugar is low, high, or within the desired range.

Type 1 diabetes is a scary diagnosis, but you are not alone in your efforts to treat and care for your child. Using all of the tools at your disposal will help keep you informed, calm, and supported as you navigate a difficult path.