Questions to Ask a Potential Therapist When Dealing With Type 1 Diabetes

Living with type 1 diabetes is like riding a rollercoaster; there are highs and lows, twists and turns, and bouts of anxiety. As someone intimately familiar with this journey, I’ve come to appreciate that seeking support from a therapist is a crucial part of your self-care journey. Here are some questions that can be helpful to ask potential therapists:

Understanding Type 1 Diabetes: Beyond the Numbers

Living with type 1 diabetes isn’t just about managing blood sugar levels; it’s about navigating a constant balancing act between insulin doses, carbohydrate counts, and unexpected fluctuations. It’s about facing the relentless uncertainties and fears about the future while trying to live fully in the present.

Questions That Resonated with Me:

1. Have you worked with clients who have type 1 diabetes before? I needed to know if my therapist understood the daily challenges and emotional rollercoaster that comes with managing type 1 diabetes.
2. Are you aware of the link between emotional wellbeing and diabetes management?  The relationship between our emotional health and diabetes care is reciprocal. When we are emotionally stable, our blood sugar levels tend to be more consistent and less prone to fluctuations. Conversely, when managing diabetes becomes overwhelming, it can significantly impact our emotional well-being. It was important for me to know that the therapist was keenly aware of this emotional connection and could provide support in this crucial aspect of diabetes care.
3. What strategies do you use to help clients cope with the emotional impact of living with type 1 diabetes? Whether it’s mindfulness techniques or cognitive-behavioral strategies, I was interested in understanding how my therapist planned to help me build resilience and emotional strength.
4. How can you support me in sticking to my diabetes self-care routine? Adhering to a diabetes management routine is crucial, but it can also be challenging. I wanted to find a therapist who could help me overcome barriers and stay motivated.
5. Are you familiar with diabetes technology, such as insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs)? As someone who relies on technology to manage my diabetes, I wanted a therapist who understood the impact of these devices on my daily life and emotional well-being.
6. How do you address concerns about the future and long-term complications associated with diabetes? Living with a chronic condition like type 1 diabetes comes with its fair share of worries about the future. I needed a therapist who could help me confront these fears while fostering hope and resilience.

Finding Support That Fits

Navigating life with type 1 diabetes isn’t easy, but finding the right therapist can make all the difference. By asking these questions and seeking out a therapist who understands the personal journey of living with type 1 diabetes, you can find the support and guidance you need to thrive, both emotionally and physically. If you’re on a similar journey, don’t hesitate to ask these questions and advocate for the support you deserve. After all, we’re in this together.