When you first find out that your friend or relative is a diabetic, you may not know exactly how to respond. Part of it could be that you aren’t sure whether they’re upset and need comforting or advice, or want someone to listen to them.
By the way, that last option is a good choice in any situation.
If you are prone to blurting things out, try to avoid making any of these statements to your loved one!
I Told You That You Were Eating Too Much Sugar.
If you friend is a type 2 diabetic, they have probably already realized that their diet played a role in developing their disease. What they don’t need is other people telling them what they may have already heard from the doctor. Plus, ‘I told you so’ statements are always annoying.
I Know Someone With Diabetes…They Developed Complications and Lost a Leg.
While your friend may ask if you know other people with this disease, try to avoid making negative statements—unless they ask specifically about complications. A diabetes diagnosis is a scary thing to contemplate, and some people aren’t yet ready to hear about the worst possible outcomes.
Are You Sure You Should Eat That?
It’s not uncommon for loved ones to start keeping an eye on what a diabetic is eating after diagnosis. They might do it out of love, but to the diabetic, it feels like they’re losing control of their own rights. No one enjoys being policed by others. Additionally, it is okay for people with metabolic disorders to eat sugar, and even second helpings, in moderation. Your loved one may be enjoying a special treat.
At Least You Don’t Have Cancer.
You might think that comparing diabetes to another disease will remind your friend or family member that things could be worse. Indeed, it might. But, making comparisons can also make your loved one feel like you’re invalidating their disease. If you can’t think of anything better to say, just stay quiet and listen.
[expand title=”References“]
Top 29 Most Annoying Things to Say to People with Diabetes. URL Link. Accessed June 26, 2017.
7 Things You Should Never Say to Someone with Type 1 Diabetes. URL Link. Accessed June 26, 2017.
2014 National Diabetes Statistics Report. URL Link. Accessed June 26, 2017.
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