Managing Diabetes for Physical and Emotional Wellbeing

For Diabetes Awareness Week (9–15 June 2025), we spoke to Parvin, our Community Connections Epsom, Ewell & Banstead Co-ordinator and a volunteer Diabetes Community Champion for Diabetes UK. Parvin shares her top tips for managing diabetes in a way that supports both your physical and emotional wellbeing.

Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed or have been living with diabetes for years, her advice can help you take simple but powerful steps to feel more in control.

🌟 Parvin’s Top 5 Tips for Managing Diabetes

1. Get medical support

No matter which type of diabetes you have — Type 1 or Type 2 — your first step should be to connect with your healthcare team. They can guide you through your treatment options, offer medical advice, and help you manage the condition safely.

“You should seek support and make sure you engage with the relevant medical team to see how they can support you medically.” – Parvin

2. Seek lifestyle advice

Lifestyle changes can make a big difference — but we know they can also feel difficult or restrictive at first. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed when trying to change long-standing habits. With the right support, though, you can discover new, healthier routines that not only help manage your diabetes but also boost your energy, mood, and confidence.

Ask your GP to refer you to a dietitian or nutritionist who can work with you to create a personalised eating plan that fits your lifestyle and preferences — not just your condition.

“Introduce changes that would physically and emotionally support you.” – Parvin

3. Move your body

Physical activity helps regulate blood sugar levels and boost mood. It doesn’t need to be intense — even a walk each day can help. Just remember to carry your medication in case of sugar spikes or drops.

As part of Community Connections, we offer a wide range of physical activities to suit all interests and fitness levels — including nature walks, yoga, tennis, qigong, football, and Zumba. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re just getting started or looking to stay active in a fun, social way.

4. Find a new hobby

Living with diabetes can sometimes feel overwhelming. Exploring a new hobby can bring joy, build self-confidence, and reduce isolation.

“Our Community Connections activities are perfect for that. You can learn something new or reconnect with old passions, while meeting like-minded people who help you feel connected to your community.” – Parvin

5. Talk to family, friends, and your community

You don’t have to face diabetes alone. Talking about how you feel — especially if you’re struggling with emotions like guilt, frustration, or feeling like a burden — can make a big difference. These feelings are more common than you might think, and sharing them with trusted friends or family can bring reassurance, compassion, and a sense of connection.

Opening up can also help those around you understand what you’re going through, so they can support you in meaningful ways — emotionally and practically. You can also access:

• Peer support from trained volunteers (Parvin is one of them!)
• Community groups, including diabetes support forums (scroll down for more)
• Diabetes helplines for expert advice and emotional guidance (scroll down for more)

💬 Need extra support?

Support from MFT

If you’re living with diabetes and experiencing anxiety, low mood, low self-esteem, or social isolation — you’re not alone.

Parvin is here to help. As a Diabetes Community Champion for Diabetes UK, she offers one-to-one emotional and wellbeing support.

To access this, simply register with us (click the “Register With Us” tab at the top of our website) and ask for an appointment with Parvin.

📧 Email: info@maryfrancestrust.org.uk
📞 Call: 01372 375 400
📱 Text: 07929 024 722

Community Groups & Diabetes Support Forums (UK)

1. Diabetes UK – Local Support Groups
Run by volunteers, these groups offer peer support, events, and meetups for people living with diabetes.
🔗 Find your local group

2. Diabetes UK – Online Support Forum
A free online community where people share experiences and support each other.
Topics include Type 1, Type 2, diet, emotional wellbeing, and more.
🔗 Diabetes UK Forum

3. Local NHS Wellbeing Services
Many NHS trusts offer diabetes education programmes (e.g. DESMOND for Type 2, DAFNE for Type 1), peer support, and mental health referrals.
🔍 Search via your local NHS Trust or GP.

📞 Diabetes Helplines (UK)
1. Diabetes UK Helpline
Speak to trained advisors about managing diabetes, emotional support, and practical guidance.
📞 0345 123 2399
📧 helpline@diabetes.org.uk
🕒 Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm
🔗 Diabetes UK Helpline

2. Diabetes UK – Online Chat (Live Chat)
Chat online with advisors through the Diabetes UK website.
🔗 Live Chat

4. SilverCloud – Diabetes and Mental Health Online Programme
Some NHS regions offer access to SilverCloud, an online CBT-based tool designed for people with long-term health conditions like diabetes.
🔍 Check with your GP or IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies) service.

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