Diabetes is a part of your life you can’t leave at home. When you go to school, you must take responsibility for your diabetes.
One of the most important things to remember is to let people know that you have diabetes. Who should know about your diabetes?
You will probably have been to primary school with a number of your classmates, so they should already know about your diabetes. It is a good idea to let any new friends and your teachers know as soon as possible.
Remember to carry some form of ID with you.
Your teachers should have been informed about your diabetes, but it’s worth reminding them, as people do forget (yes, even teachers).
If you need to eat a snack during a lesson, go ahead and eat it.
Never go without because you are embarrassed to say something.
Having a hypo would be a lot more embarrassing for both you and the teacher!
Your diabetes team or your parents should be able to alter your eating plan so that you have snacks at break times, the same as everyone else.
Avoiding Hypos
Always carry something in your bag or pocket that you could take e.g. Dextroenergy* or Lucozade* tablets.
Many schools keep spare packs in the office or medical room, just in case you run out (get one of your friends to get something while someone else stays with you, if you are not feeling well).
* Other Company trademarks
What about school trips?
School trips start in your first or second year and may be holidays or field trips. Either way, there is no reason why you should not be able to go.
Depending on the activity level, you may need some guidance about your diabetes, such as where to store your insulin and travelling times. Your diabetes team can give you individual advice.
And what about exams?
No one enjoys exams and everyone gets nervous. This may have an added effect on your diabetes. Stress can make blood sugars rise or make you more prone to hypos. You may need to alter your insulin doses if you have a few days of exams.
Don’t forget to eat during exams, as they often run into break times. But not noisy foods like crisps, as people will be trying to concentrate!
Your school is there to help
Your school has probably had students with diabetes before, so they will understand any problems you may have. One of the most important things to remember is to ask for help if you need it.
This doesn’t only apply to school. You will feel much happier knowing that the people around you know how to respond to any problems related to diabetes you may have.
If there are any questions you need to ask related to school and diabetes then go and talk to your teachers, your parents or diabetes team. Someone will give you the answer.
