Diabetes and mental health: Coping as a parent of a child with T1D

Now more than ever, parenting is the hardest job in the world. The demands of childcare seemingly never stop. But when your child has type 1 diabetes (t1d), you have no choice but to take your role to the next level.

Like every parent, you want the absolute best for your child. You'd do anything to keep them safe — but you can't make their disease go away. You may have thought about diabetes and mental health when considering your child, but have you thought about your own mental health?

Taking care of a child with diabetes can add an extra layer of stress to what is already a tough job. Thankfully, it's possible to care for your child with t1d and maintain your own well-being. Here are some tips for coping with diabetes and mental health.

Find a trusted caregiver so you can enjoy alone time

Remember how anxious you felt the first time you left your newborn baby with a babysitter or relative? Leaving a child with diabetes in someone else's care can bring up some of those same feelings. It makes sense!

You may even feel nervous leaving your child with your spouse or parent, but you need to take care of yourself, too. So, choose a caregiver you can trust and make a plan to get some "me time." Consider asking a reliable friend or family member if they would be willing to learn the ins and outs of managing diabetes, explaining that it would help you get a much-needed break every now and then.

Teach your chosen friend everything you know about caring for your child's diabetes, and do a few practice runs: Let your child and the new caregiver have a "play date" at home while you work on a project or take a nap. You'll be close by if something comes up, and your helper can gain confidence in their ability to handle issues relating to diabetes.

When you decide to venture out:

Leave written instructions for the caregiver.
Make sure the caregiver has the number of your endocrinologist.
Remember you've done all you can to prepare the caregiver.
Enjoy yourself!

Get regular exercise

If you're part of a two-parent household, take turns giving each other time to exercise a few times a week. Both of you need to have time to work out — so make a plan to fit it into your schedule and stick to it.

If you're a single parent caring for a child with t1d, you may often feel like you don't get a break. But it's important for all parents to make time for themselves. Single parents may have to be creative — perhaps you can find time for a walk during your lunch hour or quickly hit the gym right after work.

The addition of exercise to your routine has many benefits. Physical exercise:

Releases muscle tension.
Helps clear your head of anxious thoughts.
Promotes better sleep.

Taking the time to care for your own physical and mental health will allow you to be a better parent to your child. Try to think of exercise as a necessity, not a luxury.

Manage your mindset

If you're the only parent you know who has a child with diabetes, you may occasionally find yourself feeling overwhelmed and isolated. You might look around at the other children on the playground and ask yourself: "Why does my child have to deal with diabetes when all of these other children don't?"

When thoughts like this pop into your head, be ready to respond. Think of an answer that is both true and reassuring.

You may even try to change the way you think! Your updated perspective may be: "I don't know why my child has to deal with diabetes, but I'm fortunate to be able to find and access the resources needed to manage it." Remind yourself that every child has unique challenges — some are just easier to see than others.

Don't be afraid to ask for professional help

After a difficult day, sometimes you just need to vent to a friend. And sometimes, you need more help than a friend can give you. If anxiety around your child's diabetes is interfering with your day-to-day life, don't hesitate to reach out for professional help.

Some people feel embarrassed to admit they are having trouble coping with diabetes and mental health, but there's no shame in seeking out a trained professional to help you get through a tough situation!

A professional counselor can:

Give you the time and space you need to process your own thoughts
Offer tools to help you manage the anxiety that naturally accompanies parenting a child with diabetes.

Many parents feel guilty when they take time for themselves, whether or not they have a child with a special healthcare need. In the long run, taking care of yourself is good parenting; you'll feel less stressed and better able to cope with the demands of parenting a child with diabetes.

When you get the time and space you need to take care of your own health, everybody wins — including your child.

Interested in learning other strategies related to caring for a loved one with diabetes? Visit the Edgepark website to read other tips for caregivers of diabetes patients.