Diabetes is a complex, chronic health condition that can be physically, emotionally, and mentally devastating to individuals who receive a diagnosis of diabetes. When someone that you love has diabetes, there are certain things you should not do, even if you feel that you are right in doing these things.

Blame the person

While there are some potential causes of type 2 diabetes that are lifestyle related, the truth is that there are many potential causes of this disease. Blaming a loved one solves nothing and can trigger behavior that is self-destructive for them.

Encourage them to misbehave

Telling someone that it’s okay to cheat when they have diabetes is never a good idea. They are likely working to reduce their dependence on insulin by making healthy changes or trying to balance an unexplained high glucose reading.

Encouraging cheating is unhelpful and potentially dangerous for a loved one with diabetes.

Suggest that ignoring it will make it go away

Diabetes does not simply “go away” without treatment and other interventions. Diabetes is a condition that must be managed to avoid dire health consequences.

Resist the temptation to tell them everything is going to be okay or that there is nothing to fear about having diabetes. Let them know that you will be there for them and plan to do whatever they need you to do to help them manage their condition and live their healthiest possible life.