diaTribe Asks: How Do We Reduce Diabetes Stigma and Guilt? 

If you suffer stigmatization and guilt about your diabetes, know that you’re not alone.

diaTribe interviewed Dr. Susan Guzman, a psychologist:

One person with type 1 diabetes told Dr. Guzman that when seeking medical consultation, her endocrinologist called her A1c over 6.5% a “failure” and used critical language to discuss her weight; she felt so ashamed that she tried to conceal her diabetes from friends, employers, and strangers. Dr. Guzman urged physicians to cease using harmful messaging, such as “non-compliant,” “unmotivated,” and “failure.” These terms discourage and embarrass rather than motivate; they are often also misguided in origin. Words like “prevention,” “reversible,” and “cure” can also contribute to stigma by inadequately recognizing the long-term efforts and constant decision-making involved in diabetes.

Source: How Do We Reduce Diabetes Stigma and Guilt? | diaTribe

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