Living with Type 1 Diabetes and Mental Health - Finding Support in Technology

Insulet has paid a fee to engage Joanna as a content creator and has an ongoing commercial relationship with Joanna as a Sponsored Podvocate, however the views expressed in this testimonial are solely those of Joanna. This blog post is not a substitute for medical advice and/or services from a healthcare provider. This blog post is not to be relied upon in any way in connection with your personal health care related decisions and treatment.

Living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) for over two decades has taught me that this condition goes far beyond just making sure my glucose levels stay in range. It’s a constant balancing act that demands both physical and mental strength. In my 26-year-long journey with T1D, I’ve learned a lot, and I’ve also seen diabetes technology come a long way since my diagnosis in 1998. I wanted to share how technology, especially the Omnipod DASH®, has helped me manage not just my T1D but also the mental health challenges that come with it.

Living with T1D is like riding an emotional rollercoaster that never stops—truly! The constant fear of hypoglycemia, the annoyance of unexpected glucose level spikes from factors out of my control, and the constant vigilance are mentally exhausting. It’s not just about the physical symptoms—it’s the worry, the planning, and the never-ending adjustments that can lead to anxiety and depression.

Did you know that depression affects one in four people with diabetes (both type 1 and type 2)? And according to JDRF, adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes have five times the rate of depression compared to their peers without the condition.1

This statistic is eye-opening because managing a chronic condition like T1D can be incredibly exhausting and can take a toll on mental health. During my adolescence, I struggled with the pressure of trying to keep my glucose levels in check while navigating school, social life and family life. If I’m being honest, it felt overwhelming at times, and I experienced moments of anxiety and stress because of it. Now, having the Omnipod DASH® in my diabetes toolkit has made all the difference.

When I started my Omnipod journey several years ago, things really took a turn for the better. One of my favourite things about Omnipod is that it’s small and tubeless, so it doesn’t even feel like I’m wearing an insulin pump. It’s not just about the convenience of ditching multiple daily injections or the freedom it gives me in my lifestyle—one of the biggest impacts has been on my mental health.

With Omnipod DASH, my diabetes management is simpler. Because the pump delivers insulin continuously, my glucose levels stay more stable throughout the day and night. I can easily personalize my insulin delivery based on what I’m doing—whether I’m working out or indulging in a richer meal—so I don’t have to deal with as many unexpected highs and lows.

I remember a solo vacation to Scandinavia where, for the first time in years, I was able to relax and enjoy myself without constantly worrying about my diabetes. The continuous insulin delivery and the ability to adjust my doses on the go (especially while being out of routine) gave me a sense of freedom I hadn’t felt in ages.

Even with the best technology, living with Type 1 Diabetes can still be challenging. That’s why mental health support is so crucial. Having a support system in place, along with the right technology, has also helped me manage the emotional aspects of living with T1D. According to the World Health Organization, over 280 million people globally experience depression, but it often goes undiagnosed and untreated due to the stigma around mental health.2 Whether it’s through therapy, support groups, or just talking with friends and family, having outlets to express your feelings and concerns is so important.

For me, writing about my experiences and connecting with the diabetes community has been a huge source of strength. It’s comforting to know I’m not alone and that others understand exactly what I’m going through. I am grateful to always be able to lean on the T1D community.

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Living with T1D is a journey of highs and lows (literally!) that requires both diligent management and mental resilience. It’s a condition that impacts every aspect of life, including mental health. However, with the right tools and support, I’m better equipped to navigate these challenges with confidence.

Omnipod DASH has been a key part of my diabetes management, giving me the freedom and flexibility to live my life more simply. It’s a reminder that while diabetes is a part of me, it doesn’t define me.

As we focus on mental health, let’s not forget the impact of living with chronic conditions like T1D. It's okay to feel overwhelmed. It's okay to ask for help. And it’s also important to lean on technology that can make living with T1D that much easier.

Refer to the Omnipod® System and Omnipod DASH® User Guide for complete safety information including indications, contraindications, warnings, cautions, and instructions. 

1. https://jdrf.ca/life-with-t1d/mental-health/
2. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression
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