Dexcom changes can bring a host of issues for T1D kids and their families. There are some tried and true strategies that I’ve seen work for many people. Today’s question comes from a mom who is trying to smooth out the rough edges for her newly-diagnosed, middle-school daughter. Join us!
Show Highlights:
- Guest: Ashley, whose daughter (12) was diagnosed just a few months ago
- How the diagnosis has been traumatic and shocking for a child who is rarely ever sick
- How this diagnosis has jarred the entire family since there is no family history of diabetes on either side
- How her daughter has become a competent advocate for herself because of other issues like dyslexia and dysgraphia
- How they have gotten great support from her school and their family and been able to work as a team
- How Dexcom changes bring a floodgate of anxiety and tears and break down the communication and teamwork
- Ashley’s Question: “When we get to those places of anxiety about Dexcom changes, how can we handle the conflict without arguing?”
- JoAnne’s Answer: “What I hear is how much you love her and how incredibly frustrating it is when she gets to this place of anxiety. One important thing is to change your language to and instead of but in a comment like, “I know it’s hard, AND you still have to do it.” Even though she doesn’t want to have these conversations about Dexcom changes, I think you still need to bring it up and validate the fact that it’s difficult. One strategy is to let her know you are leaving her there to change the Dexcom on her own, and another is to talk about it ahead of time and ask what her plan is to make it easier. A third strategy would be to let her know that you have suggestions to make it easier if she is interested in those, like breathing meditations, humming, distraction, etc. This is a hard age at which to be diagnosed; she’s being a superstar, AND it’s still a lot to handle. You should let her know that and give her permission to hate it and fall apart at other moments when the Dexcom change is not the issue. One idea is to ask the endocrinologist for a loaner Dexcom that you can wear to be in solidarity with her and show her that you understand. I think going to diabetes camp will be extremely helpful for her and your family.”
Resources:
Visit my website for available resources: www.diabetessweettalk.com
*Visit my website to get my Self-Care Kit to bring more ease and balance into your diabetes management routine!
*Visit my website to sign up for my FREE webinar, Let Them Eat Cake? It’s happening on December 14, and I’d love for you to join us!
*For help with the emotional and parenting challenges of facing T1D management, join one of our live recording sessions by clicking the banner at the top of the website homepage.
*For help in diabetes management, check out Sweet Talk’s Put Diabetes In Its Place coaching course.
*For a more hopeful future for you and your T1D child, consider the After Diagnosiscoaching course.
Mentioned in this episode:
Get Help After Diagnosis!
Get back to being the calm and sturdy parent you were before your child's diagnosis with the After Diagnosis Course to help ease your mind and return you to calm parenting. Go to https://diabetessweettalk.com/courses.
