New to this type of thing...

Hey Jess,

I'm glad you're checking out the site, because Type 1 diabetes isn't simple and we really all need a lot of support all the time. I think you'll go through phases of your life where having diabetes is manageable and you're willing to do what it takes to keep it in great control...and then other phases of your life diabetes can become this hugely enormous annoying awful thing that you just can't stand. And it is possible to get yourself out of that phase---because the longer you stay in it, the more permanent damage your body will endure. Right?

So, first off, check out a couple articles on here:

This one is written by Tressa. What you're doing to your blood sugars by not taking your insulin with your meals is a method of losing weight called "Diabulimia." It is a type of eating disorder that is common in young women with Type 1 diabetes. But it is hurting you and you know this because you know you don't feel well. It's time to figure out what you need to help yourself get back on track.

Read her blog HERE.

And also check out these:

Getting back into control.

Some things I've learned about diabetes...

We've got a lot of blogs on here from our Experts and from other teens experiencing a lot of the same things you are. It's not easy!!! Diabetes is HARD! But I can tell you personally, when diabetes has felt "easy" for me, it's when I do everything I'm supposed and I take care of it well, because then I feel HEALTHY and HAPPY and I can do everything else that I want to in my life without diabetes holding me back.

Check out those blogs and let me know whatya think, if you have any specific questions or other stuff you want to talk about!!! We're all here!!!

-Ginger

Hey Jessica,

     You've come to the right place. A lot of us have posted thoughts and details about similar experiences... there is no question that everyone feels "out of control" at some point. You are absolutely right that one good thing about Diabetes is that it forces you to pay attention to your body and practice healthy habits, but obviously, neglecting your health has even more serious consequences now than before.

      I think that, after looking around on the site and taking what you can from the various posts, you should consider whether your doctor/diabetes management team is giving you everything you need. A lot of people get shortchanged on diabetes education and support because of busy doctors who don't necessarily specialize in diabetes care. Find out who the best endocrinologists and dieticians are in your area and try to visit them, if possible.

Best of luck.