If you’ve just been diagnosed with diabetes you could be feeling overwhelmed, experiencing a range of emotions and have a lot of questions. This is a normal response.

It’s important to remember that you are not alone. There is a lot of information available to help you understand your diagnosis and people who can help and support you.

What you can do

Take charge of your diabetes by learning more about it and getting the help and support you need. Learn more about:

• Type 1 diabetes
• Type 2 diabetes
• Gestational diabetes

We recommend recommended you get yourself set up with a healthcare team who can answer your questions and help you manage your diabetes. Your healthcare team might include your GP, an endocrinologist, exercise physiologist, dietitian and diabetes educator. Your healthcare team can also help you register for the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS).

Register with the National Diabetes Services Scheme

If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes you are eligible to register with the NDSS. Registration is free and gives you access to subsidised products, educational events, and advice via the NDSS Helpline – 1800 637 700.

To register with the NDSS:

1. Complete the registration form, which you can download it here, or ask your doctor, or pharmacy for a printed copy.
2. Have the form certified by your doctor, endocrinologist or credentialed diabetes educator.
3. Email the form to [email protected], or mail it to the address provided on the form.

Find out more about diabetes and how to manage it

It’s really important to understand how diabetes affects your body. Attending educational events and talking to your doctor or a diabetes educator is a good way to learn more.

Investing in membership with Diabetes Australia is a great way to learn more about you diabetes and have access to resources. As a member you have access to free and discounted events, the support of our online member community, will receive free magazines and newsletters and be able to call our team of health professionals if you have questions or need a little extra help and support. Find out more about the benefits of becoming a member of Diabetes Australia.

Create a support network

It’s really helpful to have people around you who know about your diabetes diagnosis and can be there to care for and support you when you need it. Remember:

• Everyone has different experiences with diabetes
• Treatment recommendations are individual
• Diabetes support groups are there to help you
• Services are available to assist you with important issues.

It’s important to talk to your family and loved ones about your diagnosis. Perhaps you could invite them to see your GP with you so they can be reassured about how you can manage your diabetes together.

The NDSS Peer Support website is a free resource, to help adults with diabetes access peer support information and find independently run peer support groups. Find out more about support groups.

The most important thing to remember is that you are not alone. There is support available. Call us if you need extra help. Diabetes Australia is here for you.