Millions of people around the world have been diagnosed
with diabetes and are left with unanswered questions, and often feel all alone
and uncertain about who they can turn to for support as they adapt to this new
lifestyle. Various resources are available online for individuals for these
exact purposes. As diabetics, it is important to be educated about maintaining
safety while searching the internet, knowing which sites are appropriate,
secure, and will maintain confidentiality. A few reliable sources available are
the American Diabetes Association, an online support community
(community.diabetes.org), Daily Strength Support Group (dailystrength.org), and
Healthful Chat (healthfulchat.org).
American Diabetes Association not only provides an online
resource with updated research articles, recipes, diabetes basic information, a
hotline to call if you have questions, but also the online support group where
members post their questions or concerns and individuals within this support
group can reply with their comments and resources to help.
Daily Strength has a support group provided for patients
diagnosed with Type 1 and 2 Diabetes. Type 1 support group focuses primarily on
children recently diagnosed and provides an area where parents or loved ones
can come seek help or comfort. It is a forum that is open to parents, or even
those dealing with diabetes, where they can come to ask questions of all types
regarding type 1 diabetes. The type 2 group focuses on those whose body does
not produce enough insulin. Whether it deals with treatment, lifestyle, medications,
or just needing support, this section can help guide and support you during the
tough times.
Healthfulchat is another reliable source that provides a
place to receive peer support. From the chat room to various forums, this site
offers you a social network so that you can connect easily with others. Whether
you are dealing with type 1 or 2, this resource provides access to individuals
all over the world to discuss diet, symptoms, or just have a conversation with
someone who understands what it is like to live life with this illness.
These websites require its participants to register an
account which will require a valid email and demographic information to be
provided. At times, portions may be optional to be filled out and it may be
better to not reveal certain items about your identity (phone number, address).
A username will be created and this is where it is important to not reveal
personal information. Creating a unique username (e.g. name1234), will provide
for a safer internet experience. Online safety is difficult to manage and this
is why sites such as these suggest to their members to not reveal personal
information while providing questions or answers. For example, when posing a
question about food, if possible, do not include the location or the specific
name of the restaurant. It is safer to ask generic questions or for
recommendations around a central area such as Northern Utah, rather than saying
specifically Logan or Nibley. Try not to reveal your location online, it often
warrants unwelcome occurrences to happen.
Using a graphic or an image that does not contain a
picture of yourself also allows for even more safety and confidentiality. This
allows you to also remain anonymous while on these forums which provides a
sense of comfort. Beginning this process can be intimidating and being able to
ask questions anonymously often helps to bring about the courage to do so. We
want the internet to be a tool for you to gain support and answers to the
questions you may have, but keep your identity safe in the process.
