If I have Type 2 diabetes
what do I need to know?

You need to know:  

Type 2 diabetes is when your body can't use the insulin it makes. If you have Type 2 diabetes you may be able to keep your blood glucose levels normal by eating  in a healthy way, exercising, and taking diabetes medication.

Over time this may not be enough top keep blood glucose in control. Some people find that they need to use insulin to bring their blood glucose to a more normal level.

The causes of Type 2 diabetes

As far as we know, there is no single cause of Type 2 diabetes. We know that some factors put people at a greater risk for developing Type 2 diabetes. Some of these factors are: 

§          having diabetes in your family

§          being overweight

§          being over 45 years old 

You may have mixed feelings about taking insulin!

§          You may be feeling guilty or feel like you have failed because you must now take Insulin.  Please dont!   A number of factors may have affected your diabetes. For example, your body may have lost it’s ability to make insulin – and your medication will no longer work. 

§          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 flyer titled “Insulin? How? Where? Things you should know if you’re starting on insulin” 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 “Equilibrium”, a resource booklet for adults with Type 2 diabetes.