When is the Best Time to Tell People You Have Diabetes?

My husband rarely tells people about his diabetes because he doesn't like questions or comments about the illness. Many diabetics, especially teenagers, don't want others to know, but telling people in specific situations is very important. Here are the ways and times you should let others know about your condition.

Have Identifiers On Your Person

Everyone who is diabetic should wear a diabetes bracelet or have some type of card or voice alert system to let others know in case of a medical emergency. If possible, the identifier should indicate whether you're type 1 or type 2. My best bet for convincing my husband to keep something to indicate that he is diabetic is to put a card in his wallet so that someone going through it in an emergency may find it.

Tell People in Charge or in Close Quarters

His boss also knows that he's diabetic, as does his officemate. I think it's important for people to know in case something happens. If people seem interested, he gives them a rough idea of how a diabetic seizure would look, and we've found that people are very understanding of his medical needs once he lets them know what is going on.

Let Family Know What To Do

Of course, everyone in our families knows what to expect if something ever should happen to him. As soon as our son is old enough, he will know how to dial 911. We will tell him early about the diabetes and about what to do if Daddy passes out. Your children should know as well, and adults should be told exactly what to do. Panic is not your friend in a diabetic emergency.

Be Open With Your Partner

Finally, I know all about what diabetes can do. The first couple of times he had lows during the night, I was terrified. Lows can - and should - be avoided, but it also is important to let your partner know what to expect. I know from my husband's thrashing around that I should wake him and help him get to the kitchen. Your partner should be aware of your medications and how they work. You also should teach your partner, or have your healthcare provider do it, about any emergency shots you have to raise your blood sugar and when to call for emergency assistance.

Dealing with diabetes does mean knowing who to tell and how much to tell them. Your life could depend on it.