Helping Teen-age Diabetics

Make health care providers, parents, and teens a team in managing diabetes. No one should be alone in the process, least of all the teen-ager.

Teen-agers may need more office visits than when they were younger, to help them adjust medications as they go through puberty and growth spurts.

Build their ability to make good decisions early on, which helps build trust as the patients grow up.

Don’t blame the teen patients when control loosens.

Accept rebellion. Look for safe ways teens can rebel without jeopardizing their health.

Cultivate a neutral language. Don’t use words such as "bad" blood sugar or "bad" foods.

Be clear about expectations and set realistic goals.

Be flexible. Don’t expect perfection.

Help families adjust to the child’s increasing levels of responsibility and his continued need for support.