Elizabeth Parker Rural Health and Nutrition
Ask anyone with a diagnosis of diabetes, and they’ll tell you that blood sugar management is a full-time job. Doctor visits, medications, blood sugar monitoring, and diet are just some of the pieces that make up living with diabetes. Diabetes is also a condition that can feel isolating and lonely and can lead to burnout. However, a strong, positive support network can help those with diabetes live a longer, healthier life.
Studies show that diabetes support groups improve understanding of both diabetes and participants’ mental health. Social support for diabetes has also been found to improve participants’ capability, confidence, and control in managing their blood sugar. Having a strong social network can help individuals make and maintain the lifestyle changes necessary for long-term diabetes management. Diabetes support groups also provide local resources that can help lead to better diabetes self-management, such as food assistance programs and exercise opportunities. Many support groups welcome the friends and family members of participants so they can better support you with accurate information on managing diabetes.
Clemson Extension offers a free diabetes self-management and support program called Health Extension for Diabetes. Health Extension for Diabetes is specifically designed for those living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes and is offered online or in person. Through this program, participants learn about self-care behaviors and lifestyle changes they can make to better self-manage their blood sugar. For more information about all programs offered by the Clemson Extension Rural Health and Nutrition team, visit Clemson.edu/extension/health.
