THIS WEEK is National Diabetes Week (11–17 July) this year the focus is around those who are living with diabetes with their mental and emotional health. Another factor that will be considered is the stigma people with diabetes often experience.

When this group of health support has been organised we normally can gather in at least 280 people that connect with mental health per event in the last 12 months have been confronted with mental health and wellbeing concerns from individuals and family members who have experienced lived experiences.

The stigma still lingers as when the public has no knowledge of this type let alone assist this is when stigma affects diabetes due to lack of awareness.

For 2021 the aim is to raise much-needed awareness in our community through spreading knowledge for those that are unaware of the struggles that diabetics do feel with the day-to-day effects.

Every year children and adults are admitted to hospital due to early warning signs of type 1 diabetes being missed. Type 1 diabetes can be fatal for the person if not diagnosed in time.

One way of early detection of signs of type 1 diabetes is learning the 4Ts. The 4Ts consists of noticing changes in your body such as the frequent need to go to the toilet, always thirsty or wanting water all the time, a sudden weight loss, along with going to the toilet more than usual. If you see these signs don’t wait to seek a doctor.

Diabetes Queensland is an organisation that provides assistance to the diabetes community and is supported by Queensland Health.

The organisation continues to assist people in regional areas by offering support, connection and resources to those who need the help.

This program allows people to support people in the community, providing education and useful tips for community members on how to give the correct and accurate diagnosis and information if you are on the go.

Living with the condition impacts individuals and their families where general awareness and advocacy is the key in providing support to help those that are on the front line as people within the communities.

The Diabetes Queensland Contact Centre is available to those needing diabetes support even to support travelling with type 1 diabetes and can be contacted on 1800 177 055 or by emailing [email protected]

The support team provides education and outreach to schools, workplaces, and the broader community to promote a culture that recognises and includes everyone in the prevention and care of diabetes. They offer a variety of programs and partnerships with health professionals and community leaders in the delivery of policies and programs engaging in the National Diabetes Week that will allow for consistent results both in terms of advocacy and awareness of those living with diabetes.

A program that exists online is the Diabetes Queensland Ambassadors Program consisting of volunteers who support awareness for people living with diabetes. This program includes opportunities to identify with champions in the media, sporting, and arts by building key strengths to grow your voice and message in supporting others in the community.

If you are interested in becoming an Ambassador for Diabetes Queensland you can visit the website or call 1800 177 055 or [email protected] for more information.

Roborn the Rose