If I have Type 1 diabetes
what do I need to know?
 

 You need to know:

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body makes little or no insulin.

 

The cause of Type 1 diabetes.

No one rally knows what causes Type 1 diabetes.

 

We know that:

§      There is nothing that you could have done to stop Type 1 diabetes, even if you had been to the doctor sooner.

§     Your body’s defense system may attack your insulin-making cells by mistake but we don’t know why.

§         It usually develops before 30 years old.

§         It is typically diagnosed in childhood or adolescence.

§         It is NOT caused by eating too much sugar.

You may have mixed feelings about having Type 1 diabetes. You might have a hard time believing and accepting that you or a family member has diabetes.

You may be feeling:

§         Scared

§         Angry

§         Shocked

§         Overwhelmed

This is normal. We all handle situations differently.

§         You may fear that taking a needle may be painful. Don’t worry! Many people say they can’t feel it at all!

§         You may be feeling nervous of the thought of having to take insulin injections everyday. The following pages will help you every step of the way.

What you can do to feel better:

Share:  Share your feelings with your family and friends. Tell them what you need from them to feel better.

Act:  Just because you have diabetes does not mean that you have to stop doing the things you and your family enjoy.

Learn:  Learn as much as you can about your diabetes. The more you can learn, the less you will be afraid. Attend a diabetes education centre. Join the Canadian Diabetes Association and ask about any local activities that will help you learn more.

Ask  about “In Sync”, a resource booklet for teens with Type 1 diabetes.