{"id":9112,"date":"2024-01-29T12:00:57","date_gmt":"2024-01-29T17:00:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/type1support.ca\/how-to-talk-about-diabetes\/"},"modified":"2026-02-18T10:27:44","modified_gmt":"2026-02-18T15:27:44","slug":"how-to-talk-about-diabetes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/type1support.naracreative.com\/en\/how-to-talk-about-diabetes\/","title":{"rendered":"How to talk about diabetes"},"content":{"rendered":"

Living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) or having a child with T1D is a daily challenge. Beyond medical considerations, another essential aspect that\u2019s often overlooked: the choice of words.<\/p>\n

Various articles published by Diabetes Canada, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and the American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE) highlight how words used to talk about diabetes impact the lives of those affected. They offer practical recommendations for healthcare professionals, people concerned by diabetes, their peers and the general public, highlighting how important word choice is.<\/p>\n

The power of words<\/b><\/h2>\n

Language is more than just a vehicle for communicating our ideas: it\u2019s also a powerful tool that can shape the way we think of and perceive the world. Words with neutral or positive connotations promote a respectful and understanding environment, while negative words might reinforce unfounded judgments and stereotypes. This is also the case with diabetes.<\/p>\n

Certain terms can be perceived as stigmatizing or negative. This can have a significant impact on people with T1D\u2019s mental well-being, making them feel powerless or guilty in the face of some of the challenges they face with the disease. For example, words such as \u201cuncontrolled,\u201d \u201cdiabetic\u201d or \u201cnon-compliant\u201d can carry stereotypes and drive a negative view of those living with diabetes.<\/p>\n

A growing number of studies show that many people with T1D, and sometimes their loved ones (e.g., parents) face stigma associated with diabetes<\/a>. Stigma often fosters feelings of guilt, shame or blame and lead to isolation, which in turn can cause psychological distress, discourage people from taking care of their health, and affect quality of life.<\/p>\n

Change begins with words<\/b><\/h2>\n

The words we use play an important role in how diabetes is perceived and experienced. Prioritizing words that highlight strengths and drive respect, inclusion and hope can have a real impact on the lives of people with diabetes. Here are some practical tips to improve the way we talk about diabetes.<\/p>\n

1. Use neutral, factual language<\/b><\/p>\n

When talking about diabetes, neutral language based on facts, actions or physiology\/biology should prevail. For instance, the word \u201ccontrol\u201d, often used in the context of care, suggests that a person with diabetes has total control over their blood sugar levels, which is not the case. A word such as \u201cmanagement\u201d better reflects the complexity of diabetes as it acknowledges that there are factors over which people with T1D have no control, such as socio-economic, genetic and environmental factors, just to name a few.<\/p>\n

2. Use language that highlights strengths<\/b><\/p>\n

Studies show that negative or demeaning language can contribute to diabetes-related distress<\/a>, impact diabetes management and even affect longer-term health (e.g., glycemic sugar balance over the recent months). Those involved in the care (e.g., loved ones, healthcare professionals) of people with T1D are encouraged to focus on the successes and to recognize their abilities and strengths rather than focusing only on what doesn\u2019t work.<\/p>\n

3. Promote collaboration<\/b><\/p>\n

Some common attitudes or expressions are both harsh and patronizing. and make people with T1D feel scrutinized and reprimanded. Using an approach based on collaboration (e.g., healthcare professionals, parents) and respect is essential for building trust.<\/p>\n

4. Use language that focuses on the person<\/b><\/p>\n

Considering each person as a whole and recognizing the experience of individuals who manage their condition on a daily basis is essential. Their quality of life and overall well-being deserve just as much attention as the medical considerations. For instance, phrases such as \u201ca person living with diabetes\u201d, rather than \u201ca diabetic\u201d, indicate that the person is considered and recognized beyond their medical condition.<\/p>\n

Concrete examples<\/b><\/h2>\n

To better understand how to apply these tips, here are some alternatives to terms with potentially negative connotations that will improve the way we talk about diabetes.<\/p>\n

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\nDownload this practical guide
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The words we use are important. Prioritizing inspiring, supporting and respectful language when talking about diabetes can really have an impact on how this disease is perceived. This can help reduce or even eliminate stigma and create an environment in which everyone can thrive, despite T1D.<\/p>\n

References :<\/h3>\n