Living with Diabetes
Communication Breakdowns
Communication can break down. Conflicts naturally result because each family member is different: different ages, different ideas, different likes and dislikes. Diabetes management is just another area for tension.
Conflict happens in every family. Turn conflict into learning. Remember to:
- Cool off. Avoid hurt feelings by taking a walk or a few deep breaths before confronting someone.
- Listen – really listen. Ask your child or your spouse what you can do better. Listen closely and pay full attention. Then work together to reach an understanding or compromise.
- Express yourself. Help your family understand your feelings and actions.
- Talk it out. Sometimes the best answer is to call a family meeting. Set rules: No interrupting. No yelling. No mean words. No blame.
- No shame. Everyone gets a turn to speak. Focus on the problem, not the people. Agree that anyone can call a family meeting – even kids!
- Go pro. One of the most effective ways to work through family frustrations is to talk with an expert. Contact your D-team for a referral.
