Take our quiz and enter to win two return tickets on BermudAir!

Do you have diabetes? *

Yes

Do you have family members or close friends who have diabetes? *

Yes

How do you usually refer to people who have diabetes? *

S/he is diabetic

S/he has diabetes

S/he suffers with diabetes

S/he is living with diabetes

It's generally preferable to use "s/he has diabetes' or 's/he is living with diabetes'.

Key takeaway: The language we use matters. One example is calling someone with diabetes a "diabetic". Calling someone a diabetic implies that their prominent attribute is the disease. Instead, say "person with diabetes" or "persons living diabetes". Some people feel the use of 'diabetic' is acceptable. When in doubt, just ask the individual rather than assume. He or she is likely to appreciate that you care enough to inquire

Have you ever thought, or stated that persons living with diabetes are to blame for having the disease because they are overweight and/or have unhealthy lifestyles? *

Yes

Uncertain

It's a common misconception that people with diabetes make unhealthy food and lifestyle choices, which result in developing diabetes.

Key takeaway: While there is a connection between lifestyle habits and type 2 diabetes, there are many factors such as family history, genetics, and getting older which are significant determinants. A person who never exercises and regularly eats an unhealthy diet may never develop diabetes. While another person may follow a healthy diet, get plenty of exercise, follow the advice of their doctor, and still develop diabetes.

Have you ever questioned a person about whether they should be eating a certain way or a certain food?

Yes

Uncertain

People with diabetes often feel criticized, or judged by others-including health professionals- about their food choices and eating habits.

Key takeaway: Shaming people about how they eat can cause them emotional distress which could trigger over-eating or eating unhealthy foods.

How we think and talk about diabetes contributes to improving health outcomes for people with diabetes.

How do you feel about seeing people manage their diabetes care, such as injecting insulin or checking blood sugar levels?

I am comfortable with people managing their diabetes care

I am neither comfortable nor uncomfortable with people managing their diabetes care

I am uncomfortable with people managing their diabetes care

I am uncertain as to how I feel about seeing people manage their diabetes care

Managing diabetes is a '24/7 365' effort.

People living with diabetes need to monitor their blood sugar levels, manage blood sugar highs and lows, manage blood pressure, cholestorol levels, and plan meals and count carbohydrates, as well as find time for regular appointments with health professionals.

Many people with diabetes hide the disease and report feeling embarassed and ashamed. Let them know you're ok with them managing their diabetes care and you're glad they are taking good care of themselves helps.

Do let the people in your life, who have diabetes, know that you care and support them. It can help A LOT.

If you have any questions about diabetes or how you can help others who are living with diabetes, leave your comment below or email your questions to: [email protected]

Enter email for a chance to win return tickets on BermudAir. You will also be notified about our upcoming classes and programs. Please include your e-mail below.

Take our quiz and enter to win two return tickets on BermudAir!

Do you have diabetes? *

Yes

Do you have family members or close friends who have diabetes? *

Yes

How do you usually refer to people who have diabetes? *

S/he is diabetic

S/he has diabetes

S/he suffers with diabetes

S/he is living with diabetes

It's generally preferable to use "s/he has diabetes' or 's/he is living with diabetes'.

Have you ever thought, or stated that persons living with diabetes are to blame for having the disease because they are overweight and/or have unhealthy lifestyles? *

Yes

Uncertain

It's a common misconception that people with diabetes make unhealthy food and lifestyle choices, which result in developing diabetes.

Have you ever questioned a person about whether they should be eating a certain way or a certain food?

Yes

Uncertain

People with diabetes often feel criticized, or judged by others-including health professionals- about their food choices and eating habits.

Key takeaway: Shaming people about how they eat can cause them emotional distress which could trigger over-eating or eating unhealthy foods.

How we think and talk about diabetes contributes to improving health outcomes for people with diabetes.

How do you feel about seeing people manage their diabetes care, such as injecting insulin or checking blood sugar levels?

I am comfortable with people managing their diabetes care

I am neither comfortable nor uncomfortable with people managing their diabetes care

I am uncomfortable with people managing their diabetes care

I am uncertain as to how I feel about seeing people manage their diabetes care

Managing diabetes is a '24/7 365' effort.

Do let the people in your life, who have diabetes, know that you care and support them. It can help A LOT.

If you have any questions about diabetes or how you can help others who are living with diabetes, leave your comment below or email your questions to: [email protected]

Enter email for a chance to win return tickets on BermudAir. You will also be notified about our upcoming classes and programs. Please include your e-mail below.

See the campaign

This campaign highlights the harmful stigma surrounding diabetes, a widespread issue impacting the mental and physical well-being of those living with the condition. Research shows that diabetes stigma can deeply affect self-esteem, health outcomes and overall quality of life. Our goal is to educate, raise awareness and inspire meaningful action to reduce stigma and build a more understanding and supportive community for everyone affected.

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No one should feel ashamed about having diabetes or let anything stop them from seeking treament or managing the disease.