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Even if you have the most understanding and loving family in the
world, there will be times when you need to talk to someone who is
having the same experiences as you are. Having diabetes is difficult
and frightening, especially at first. Finding a diabetes support
group should be close to the top of your list of things to do when
diagnosed with diabetes.
There are a few places to find a support group that appeals to
you. The first place to get information is from your doctor or
health care professional. Local hospitals, clinics and medical
centers usually have scheduled meetings and guest speakers for
people with diabetes and those are good places to ask about support
groups. You can find out about different types of groups and when
and where they meet.
Neighborhood communities and churches are another place to find a
group of people that may have some shared interests and experiences.
In order for a diabetes support group to be helpful, you have to
feel like you belong and what others have to share is relevant to
what you are feeling.
There may also be a branch office of the American Diabetes
Association in your town or a city nearby. They will certainly be
able to help you find a group that fits your needs.
Of course, there is always support to be found online. There are
chat rooms, bloggers and other types of sites where you can meet
with people without leaving home. Many diabetes websites, like
diabetes.com or diabetes.org have sections that offer support and
information on finding a diabetes support group in your area.
Remember, too, that you are not in this alone. There is help
available for spouses and family members or anyone close to you who
may need advice on how best to help you. With diabetes affecting
more families now than ever before, we all need to work together to
halt the diabetes epidemic.
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