Living with Juvenile Diabetes Diabetes medically known as diabetes mellitus is the name given to disorders in which the body has trouble regulating its blood glucose, or blood sugar, levels. Diabetes is due to one of two mechanisms inadequate production of insulin (which is made by the pancreas and lowers blood glucose) or inadequate sensitivity of cells to the action of insulin. (Definition). There are two different forms of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes is known as insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Type 2 diabetes is known as non-insulin-dependent. Type 1 diabetes often develops in children, adolescents, and young adults, so it's sometimes called "juvenile diabetes". “According to the American Diabetes …show more content…

At the time of diagnosis, parents may feel anxious, angry, guilty, depressed and fearful. However, these are temporary emotions and as parents become more comfortable and knowledgeable about daily diabetes management, these emotions are replaced by others. A newly diagnosed juvenile diabetic requires a lot of teaching for the patient and parent or guardian. Healthcare providers must determine the family’s ability to learn about the disease and its management. No matter what parents do to try to prevent it, children with diabetes are going to make mistakes just like anybody else. Judy Haley, Vice-President of Outreach for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation in Houston , TX , and mother of two children with juvenile diabetes says, “the single most important thing to remember as a parent of a child with diabetes is that while it may be a difficult condition to live with, your child is NORMAL.” The parent should keep life as normal as possible and make sure there are no barriers that will prevent them from achieving their goals. They will be empowered through their parents support. If not properly taken care of there can be many complications that will also add to the families stress such as; Heart Disease, a person with diabetes have extra reason to be mindful of heart and blood vessel disease. Diabetes carries an increased risk for heart attack, stroke, and complications related to poor circulation. Kidney Disease, Diabetes