Understanding Type 2 diabetes

Welcome to our dedicated section to raise awareness and destigmatize type 2 diabetes! This page is designed for everyone interested in T2D and willing to offer support in the journey of removing the societal stigma from the condition. Our goal is to explain the condition, the psychological aspects, and help you find hope for a fulfilling life! 

What is Type 2 diabetes? The metabolic truth behind T2D: 

 

Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic condition where your body either resists the effects of insulin, or does not produce enough insulin causing glucose to build up in the bloodstream. In type 2 diabetes, the body faces insulin resistance–when your body does not use insulin properly– leading to the beta cells in the pancreas to overproduce insulin to make up for it. The overproduction causes the pancreas to eventually become exhausted and progressively decline production over time. The cells are often not irreversibly dead or lost, so embracing the condition and investing in a healthy lifestyle is key to reducing insulin resistance and living a fulfilled life. 

Key differences: Type 1 versus Type 2

Before diving further into type 2 diabetes, it is important to understand the main distinctions between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition with a strong genetic component, meaning it is the body’s immune system attacking and killing the beta-cells in the pancreas. Type 2 diabetes, while also carrying a genetic component, is a metabolic disease that causes reduced insulin production, meaning that with acceptance and lifestyle changes, the patient with Type 2 diabetes can significantly improve insulin sensitivity. 

Living well with Type 2 Diabetes: 

Due to the fact that Type 2 Diabetes carries a lot of societal stigma, it is important for everyone to understand that T2D is not a reflection of personal failure, and there is no shame in living with it. A good lifestyle with type 2 diabetes is absolutely possible and it is never too late to start new healthier habits. This condition does not define the individual, and with the right approach, type 2 diabetics can live a full and vibrant life. Everyone, regardless of their condition deserves to be heard, respected, and understood. 

 

Embracing treatment and finding support: 

We want to empower type 2 diabetics to feel motivated during treatment and to take your medicine. It is crucial to remember that managing type 2 diabetes is a journey, and every journey has its ups and downs. One important thing to remember is the importance of adhering to treatment plans, when followed correctly, the treatment plans will bring you a better life quality and reduce your risks for further complications. 

We aim to advocate for a safe space where individuals living with type 2 feel supported, understood, free from judgment and heard. When in difficulty with the journey, reach out to a friend, family-member, mental health professional, or email us for support! 

Overcoming psychological denial: 

It is completely normal to feel defensive and overwhelmed after the diagnosis. But ignoring the condition does not make it disappear.

The type 2 diabetes journey is long, exhausting, overwhelming, and sometimes might feel impossible. The feeling of wanting to ignore the disease is just fear and anxiety masked as denial. A key way to overcome that denial is to rely on a strong support system. With your support system, always remember that the blood sugar logs are not report cards, they will never be perfect 100% of the time, but overcoming denial will significantly help you improve your quality of life and consequently have better blood sugar logs. Overall, the first step for accepting the condition and living a fulfilling life is to seek support and overcome the fear and anxiety that accompanies the diagnosis. With the right plan and mindset we can work together to advocate for type 2 diabetes and live in a world without the intense societal stigma. 

Sources: 

Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), National Institutes of Health, National Library of Medicine,  American Diabetes Association (ADA)