Relative CALM

Do the demands of managing diabetes cause you to clash with your loved ones? Here’s how to stay close and connected

- STEPHAINE OSFIELD

Wouldn’t it be a relief if you and your loved ones could take a three-month holiday from diabetes? Time out from being watched over – or watching over – to make sure everything is under control. No fussing, nagging or tension about someone overdoing their dessert portion or skipping their bedtime BGL test. You’d all return from your sabbatical feeling refreshed and reconnected.

After all, when a person has diabetes it often feels like the entire family has been diagnosed as well. The demands of managing the condition add extra pressure and tension to the usual day-to-day niggles and commitments we all face.

Carrying this load can lead couples to pull in opposite directions or parents and kids to butt heads. You can help restore balance and harmony by addressing the issues that may tip your relationship into conflict.

TIPPING POINT #1

Feeling under siege

Okay, so maybe you’ve let your exercise routine slip, been slack with your medication and, after dinner, a few squares of chocolate have turned into half a block. But your partner or parent didn’t need to come on so strong about how you are not taking responsibility and don’t care about anyone else.

Now, you’re angry and not listening so you fail to see that their nagging is just a concerned call to action and an attempt to motivate you into taking better care of yourself.

The upshot? Everyone feels angry and alienated. You feel criticised and treated like a child. Your partner or parent feels unappreciated in their efforts to be supportive.

They can’t help but worry about your wellbeing – don’t forget that. If your health goes downhill, it affects their quality of life as well.