Joelle had been recently diagnosed with diabetes. She had been a vegetarian most of her life, but throughout the years she placed the needs of others above her own until her body started to complain. Although saddened by the diagnosis of diabetes, she said it wasn’t fully a surprise. Her doctor had recommended she begin medication for her blood sugar, but she wanted to work on lifestyle modifications first, so she came to see me. We uncovered barriers, made a plan that aligned with her goals, and Joelle began doing something she hadn’t done in many years: take care of herself. She pressed on, made changes, and soon began feeling the benefits. Within one month her blood sugar levels decreased to non diabetes range, she had more energy, and the abdominal pain she had for years infection simply disappeared.
Ben had had diabetes for several years and his provider recommended that he start insulin, but Ben had fears around taking insulin and injections. His doctor referred him for diabetes education and so we got to work together. We talked about his health goals, his fears around injections, we reviewed what taking insulin looks like and uncovered answers to his questions. After our visit Ben felt empowered and decided to take insulin injections. As his blood sugar started to normalize, Ben began feeling better, had more energy, and so decided to dive into lifestyle modifications that required him to eventually discontinue the insulin.
There are 4 (1) times when it is recommended to work with a diabetes educator.
1. At diagnosis
2. Annually
3. When complicating factors emerge – such as change in diabetes medications, development of kidney disease, concerns with depression and anxiety.
4. Transitions in care – such as change in living situations, hospitalization, insurance updates, age-related changes.
I would add a 5th time: whenever you feel your diabetes is not where you would like it to be and are ready for change.
Perhaps you want to further lower your A1C, change medications, want to work on your nutrition, change your exercise routine, or get new resources to simplify your care. Whatever it is, a diabetes educator can support you in achieving your health goals. These healthcare professionals have extensive knowledge of diabetes and can help you manage your diabetes and even work with you to put diabetes in remission when possible.
I can’t speak for every diabetes educator, but when working with someone with diabetes, I address the whole person from a holistic perspective. That’s because we are beautifully complex human beings and many things can affect our whole wellbeing. When I started working with Ben he was going through deep depression due to family stresses. Joelle had lost herself while caring for others. We worked together as she shifted her mindset and discovered how she could better care for others when she cared for herself. She is now living life to the fullest. Ben is planning a wedding!
If you’re ready to take your health to the next level ask your healthcare provider for a referral to a diabetes educator/care and education specialist, get in touch with your insurance for coverage if needed, and start the journey to your best health yet!