T1D and committed relationships
Letting your partner support your type 1 diabetes can bring you closer together.
You shouldn’t hide your T1D
If you’re on a first date, it might feel daunting to share your type 1 diabetes (T1D) diagnosis. Some people choose to wait, others share it quickly. Just make sure you’re not sacrificing your health to hide it. If this person is truly a potential partner, they’ll need to embrace all of you, including your T1D!
Be open and honest with each other
T1D adds another layer to any relationship. T1D is a big part of your daily life, which means it will inevitably play a role in your partner’s life, too. Any committed relationship requires communicating and supporting each other—but this becomes especially important with T1D.
Remember, there are plenty of areas in their life that you’re supporting them, too. Successful relationships require openness, honesty, and trust—especially with T1D.
Teach your partner how to support you
It can be challenging people without T1D in your life to realize what kind of support feels good to you! Teach them with specifics. Let them know, for example, that it doesn’t feel supportive when they comment on your blood-glucose levels, but you don’t mind if they remind you to take your insulin before eating. Give them clear methods of supporting you—they can’t help it, they care about you.
Let them know if your blood-glucose level is affecting your mood
High blood-glucose levels can make you cranky and feel lousy. Low blood-glucose levels leave you feeling weak, disoriented, and struggling to think straight. Neither is a great time for an important discussion. Help your partner understand these factors in case they’re trying to have a conversation or interaction with you when your blood-glucose levels are fluctuating.
Work on healthy habits together
Your T1D is impacted by every part of your life, and vice versa. If you’re trying to improve your nutrition choices, include your partner in this goal! Ideally, your partner will be just as concerned with their health as you are with yours, making for a like-minded connection.
Let them know if you’re struggling
Sometimes just saying it out loud—“I’m having a rough diabetes day”—can make all the difference. Let them in! Let them listen. Let them give you a hug.
Teach your partner about severe hypoglycemia
Your partner can learn when you might need support during severe low blood-glucose, where you keep emergency glucagon, and when to call 911.
More parenting and relationship guidance
Guidance on helping your child build the skills and confidence to manage T1D someday on their own.
Helping your child through this time of transition and getting ready for adulthood.
Learn how to support your child’s participation in activities and time with friends.
Things to consider when discussing your condition with others.
