What is Diabetes
Diabetes can be challenging and it can be challenging at times to manage diabetes.
Diabetes Mellitus (often referred to as simply “Diabetes”) is a condition where the body cannot maintain normal blood glucose levels.
We need glucose to provide us with the energy and we need insulin to help the glucose enter the body cells.
Why you may need diabetes support
Diabetes requires daily self-management and if diabetes-related complications develop, diabetes can have a significant impact on quality of life and can reduce life expectancy. While there is currently no cure for diabetes, you can live an enjoyable life by learning about the condition and effectively managing it.
There are times you may need support to maintain a balance in glucose levels, we can help in maintaining that balance.
It can be challenging at times to manage diabetes. Glucose levels can be unpredictable at the best of times. So it will no doubt be good to know that we are here to help you with any support that you may need. Carolien is a very experienced Credentialled Diabetes Educator, she can help you understand better how diabetes can impact on your life and what you can do to minimise this impact.
It can also be a confusing and challenging time for your family, we can provide information and support for them as well.
Carolien is also a Clinical Somatic Psychotherapist, a type of counsellor, and can help you or your family members with a range of concerns, ranging from diabetes-related stress, to anxiety, burnout, depression and diabetes distress.
We can provide:
- information
- practical advice
- education
- emotional support
- health coaching
- support for your family
- something else.
Do not hesitate to contact Carolien for an individual appointment; she will set time aside to meet with you and to support you as and when needed.
Read on for more information on all things diabetes.
Types of Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes
Previously known as
‘juvenile diabetes’, type 1 diabetes is an
auto-immune condition.
This type of diabetes
accounts for 10-15% of all
people with diabetes.
Type 2 Diabetes
Previously known as ‘mature-onset’ diabetes, type 2 diabetes is the more common form of diabetes, affecting around 85% of people with diabetes worldwide.
Gestational Diabetes
is defined as “a carbohydrate intolerance of variable severity with the first onset or diagnosis during the current pregnancy."
Diabetes does not just affect individuals, it affects families, friends, carers and colleagues as well.
Types of diabetes
Here we discuss the types of diabetes, the signs and symptoms you may experience, treatment options and prevention of high and low blood glucose levels.
Self-management
Read on for information on travelling with diabetes, sick day management, diabetes and pregnancy, and prevention or management of diabetes complications
Treatment targets
How high or low should your levels be? Read on for information on treatment targets and to find recommendations to help you and your doctor
Treatment options
In this section you find information on new medications and treatment options, the latest gadgets such as blood glucose meters, injection devices and insulin pumps
Other related medical issues
Diabetes is often associated with other medical problems, such as hypertension (high blood pressure), cholesterol, obesity, and depression. Click to learn more.
Motivational and inspiring stories
Carolien helped me reduce my anxiety by giving me some mindfulness exercises. At first, I was sceptical, but who would have thought? They work!
And I now use continuous glucose monitoring which means I can keep a close eye on my sugars, but without having to prick my fingers all the time.
Get in touch
Diabetes-Support Australia and Shire Total Healthcare acknowledge the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.