Having type 1 diabetes is tough at any age. Type 2 diabetes can often be reversed with diet and lifestyle changes. The same cannot be said of having type 1 diabetes.

The body no longer produces insulin when you have type 1 diabetes. There are notable differences between the childhood experience for diagnosis and the adult experience.

Support systems are designed for children

Children who have type 1 diabetes often have extensive support resources in place to help them with learning about and living with type 1 diabetes. Dedicated physicians, parental and family support, and many community organizations offer support for children diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

Adults diagnosed with type 1 diabetes may feel alone and unsupported because the majority of support resources are designed for children. They may feel that they have nowhere to turn to get answers to their many questions, or to express their concerns or fears.

Education and awareness

Most people likely believe that a person who is diagnosed with diabetes as an adult has type 2 diabetes. This belief is likely based on the fact that the majority of people diagnosed with type 1 diabetes are under the age of 10. The truth is that some people do not receive a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes until they are well into their teens, their twenties, thirties, and even their forties.

One major issue for adults who have type 1 diabetes is that, like support resources, education and awareness sources for type 1 diabetes are often designed for younger people diagnosed with the disease.

Treatment plans may differ for adults diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, compared to children. Adults who have type 1 diabetes may find sources for education and awareness when they discuss their treatment plan with their doctor or another member of their diabetes management team.