Psychology

Being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes usually comes as a great shock. Children and families have to learn a lot about the condition and its treatment. The clinical psychologist’s role is to help children, young people and their families adapt to the necessary changes in their lives, and to enable them to overcome any difficulties that may be prevent them from coping effectively and living life with their diabetes.

The diagnosis of diabetes may have happened quite quickly and unexpectedly, leaving you feeling unprepared for the changes you are being asked to make to your lives as a family. Families can experience a variety of emotions, such as fear, anger or guilt.

It is important that children and young people who have diabetes are encouraged to learn how to take care of their own diabetes at a stage that is right for their age and development. Children and young people respond really well to praise and encouragement, so it is important to point out their successes rather than blaming them when diabetes gets tough.

Some children and young people do find it difficult adjusting to having diabetes. Some can become burnt out, embarrassed, guilty, anxious or depressed, which can make it difficult for them to manage their diabetes or care for themselves properly. Different challenges occur at different time points throughout a young person’s life.  If you or the diabetes team have concerns, we can arrange for you to meet with a clinical psychologist to work through the particular difficulties.

We understand that looking after diabetes places a lot of pressure on children and families. The goal of treatment is to enable children, young people and families to cope effectively with their diabetes and to make sure that diabetes does not get in the way of enjoying life.