Telling the person you love that they need to make lifestyle changes, in general, is tough. Whether it's a battle with alcoholism, gambling, or drugs it can be a difficult conversation. When it comes to diseases like diabetes it can be even more difficult. Diabetes is a condition that has its symptoms, but it can still affect people differently. Someone could have diabetes and feel completely fine, but diabetes is a disease that can sneak up on you if you’re not taking proper care of your body. This is one of the many reasons it’s important to do what you can to save their life. Here we will give you some ways to reach out to your loved one and have this potentially difficult, but life-saving conversation.
Bring it To Their Attention
First and foremost, the very first thing you should do is talk to them directly about their issue. The chances of them being unaware of the severity of the problem are very high.
Although this might not be the case for everyone, if someone has type 2 diabetes chances are there was neglect when it comes to healthy habits so it may take time for them to make a change.
As a person that loves them, it’s a great idea to team up with their doctor and consistently talk to them about their condition.
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Tell Them How It Affects You
In some cases, people need to know how their actions affect the ones around them.
Having someone in your life who has diabetes that is neglecting their health can be stressful and scary for the people who care about them. Let them know that you fear for their life and that you don’t want anything bad to happen to them.
For many, this will show them how important they are to others and they can begin to value their life more.
When you have a partner and kids, health affects more than just the person suffering; it also can harm those who love you the most.
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Ask Them If You Are Doing Too Much
Although you may be trying to help, there is always a possibility that you may be doing too much.
Being overbearing with your concern can push your loved ones away and cause them to build resentment.
In return, this can do the exact opposite of what you want. Doing check-ups on how they feel about your help is a pivotal part of the process. You may want to help, but make sure you are helping in a way that works for them.
Don’t Just Talk, But Listen
Whether you agree or disagree, listening is a huge part of helping people you care about.
Diabetes can do more than just affect the physical it can also cause stress, anxiety, and depression. This is something that should be addressed by the ones who care.
Listening to them will also open the door to understanding how to reach them in times when it may feel like they’re not listening to you when you’re trying to help. We often think that helping our loved ones means we should give them lectures about what they should do.
When trying to communicate the importance of diabetes with your loved one, it’s important to handle the situation with love and care. Realize that this situation may be hard for them and some things you won’t be able to fully understand. If your loved one is severely struggling with their diabetes, reach out to a healthcare professional for help.
