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We have come a long way to normalize the discussion about diabetes and mental health, but there are more we can do.
Diabetes and Mental Health
A few years ago, talking about mental health felt like he was doing something bold. Doesn't it look ridiculous now? But we weren't that open when it came to talking about things like mental health. It felt like a topic that needed to crack open so we could take in the light and realize that it's something we all deal with.
Now we have a full list of resources we can help:
Monthly Diabetes & Mental Health Club
But I felt like something was missing. And whenever we did Facebook live, we felt it the most strongly and immediately connected directly to our community. When it comes to mental health issues, there is a craving for connectivity. Even if the live topic was different, we inevitably went back to it – because it's a huge part of our lives with diabetes.
So we asked our community if they were interested in the monthly diabetes & mental health club, and the responses were overwhelmingly positive.
All sorts of people saying “Yes!” and some specific comments here that say exactly what we need to do:
Report the struggles we face as people who live with diabetes.
kekeletteso
For people with mental problems with their diagnosis, helping them understand that there is a life after diagnosis will go a long way.
Sharon
Because from 100%, anyone experiencing the same thing as me can give advice without judgment.
Kulterum
Understand the details
Can you tell me when you realize it's time to hold these monthly meetups? Finally, we held a live Facebook event. It was very special. You could feel relieved in people's (virtual) rooms to talk about how it really feels to live with diabetes. It's just a space to hang out with others who don't judge or expect, and know what it's like.
So it's time to understand the details!
Should it just be people who live with diabetes, or should we invite experts? I meet once a month, should I meet on Facebook or Instagram? (I want to say Facebook…) Are there any specific topics that I need to discuss?
What do you think?
Please comment below or on Facebook or Instagram to help you co-create your Diabetes & Mental Health Club. Normalize your life with diabetes and deal with depression, anxiety and diabetes burnout. We're all together.
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