For Teens
All teens face challenges and have to make decisions about dating, driving, and alcohol, among other things. Teens with diabetes face the same choices as their friends. But having diabetes complicates the choices you make. Here's a rundown of some common teen issues and how diabetes may affect them.
Growing Up
Teens deal with a lot of changes in their bodies as they mature. Both guys and girls will have big physical and hormonal changes. Those same hormones that cause puberty and make your face break out make good diabetes care tough. Your blood glucose may go up and down a lot more, giving you unexplained highs and lows.
Driving
One of the biggest moments in a teen's life is finally getting a driver's license. Teens with diabetes should have no problem getting their license in most states (that is, if you can pass your driving test!).
Dating and Diabetes
By now, your close friends and family probably know that you have diabetes. Most of them are ready and willing to help you treat your hypoglycemia if needed. But what about when you meet someone new -- especially if it's a person you're interested in dating?
Sex and Pregnancy
Many of the risks of having sex are the same for teens who have diabetes as for those who don't. And they are big risks. AIDS. Syphilis, chlamydia, herpes, and other sexually transmitted infections. Pregnancy. Add to those, the risks for teens with diabetes, like hypoglycemia and special pregnancy concerns, and it's a lot of concerns to balance.
Alcohol, Tobacco, and Illegal Drugs
Some teens are tempted to try alcohol, tobacco, or drugs. You already know that none of these substances are safe. You may not know that they pose even more danger to people with diabetes.
Resources
NEW! Teens Message Board
Teenagers and young adults with diabetes have unique issues. This is a place to discuss them and to share solutions. Sometimes it's just a place to vent.
Leaving Home for Life on your Own
The year after high school graduation is full of changes. You may face diabetes challenges whether you go to college or enter the work world. Check out this article in Diabetes Spectrum. Or you can view the article as a PDF.
Think like a pancreas
Visit thinklikeapancreas.com, a new site for teens with type 1 diabetes and their friends. Join your guide, Pierre Pancreas and his swingin' band, the Keytones, as they answer all your questions about being a teen with diabetes.
Participate in a type 1 diabetes clinical trial
You may wish to participate in a type 1 diabetes clinical study. Visit the NIDDK Web site to see descriptions of studies, what you can expect if you join a study, and where to call for more information.
Identify Yourself (PDF)
Learn important information that is frequently overlooked by many people.
Just for Teens (PDF)
Learn facts and tips about alcohol, driving, drugs, sex, healthy eating, and hormones.
Preparing Students with Diabetes for Life at College (PDF)
Find out what teens with diabetes need to do in order to prepare for college life.
Managing School (PDF)
Going back to school after being diagnosed with diabetes can be rough. Learn how you and your parents can make your return to school easier.
On the Go (PDF)
Find out everything you need to know, from flying with syringes to finding a good snack.
Sports, Exercise, & Diabetes (PDF)
Learn how to plan exercise into your life, what to do in case of a low blood glucose, and how to exercise safely.
Surviving Sick Days (PDF)
Find out the ins and outs of getting through illnesses with diabetes.
Your Parents & Your Diabetes (PDF)
When you were diagnosed with diabetes, your parents may have started to act funny. There are reasons for your parents' "weird" actions.
