Living with Diabetes

You aren't perfect – and neither is your spouse or partner. Managing diabetes is a lot like juggling – a careful balance of activity with food and medication. Even the best jugglers occasionally drop a ball. All you can do is pick it up and start juggling again.

You and your spouse will do things differently. You are different people and you can't read each others' minds. Remind each other that you are a team and a team works together. Ultimately, your goal is the same – to keep your child healthy and happy.

Parent-to-Parent Communications Tips:

• Ask questions and truly listen to each other's responses.
• Share your honest feelings – the everyday decisions on diabetes care and the deeper and darker emotions, such as guilt and fear.
• Make decisions together. Be consistent in delivering your decisions. Your child will sense when you are not working together.
• Set realistic expectations – remember that no one is perfect.
• Try to put yourself in the other person's shoes.
• Stay calm and listen before you react.