Student life and diabetes

We are already almost in the middle of autumn. And if September usually marks changes and rearrangements in our lives, October is intertwined with the start of the academic year.

It is the month when first-year students prepare to live their dream.

To enjoy the carefree years of student life by taking the first and important step towards adulthood and independence.

If the school they attended is far from their place of permanent residence, along with the joy of success, the parents' anxiety also begins.

For the child who until yesterday was in the family nest and now spreads his wings to live his dream on his own.

The same anxiety, the same thoughts, the same concerns go through the minds of all parents, as these concerns overshadow - even temporarily - the joy of success.

How does a parent feel when their child with diabetes leaves them?

Keep calm, be organized, and everything will go well so that the adult student can enjoy the most wonderful years of his life to the fullest!

It is worth mentioning that children with serious illnesses have the right to transfer to their place of residence, as long as the corresponding department of the school they attended is available.

But what if transfer is not possible? No problem! With simple steps everything will run smoothly for parents and students!

For students

Before departure:

• Talk to your doctor. Inform him or her about studying in another city and ask for advice on managing diabetes away from home.

• Ensure that you have sufficient prescriptions and medications with the necessary supplies such as test strips, needles, and pump supplies, as unexpected and short trips can always occur.
• Gather the necessary medical documents and notes from your doctor so that you always have them with you (diagnosis, treatment, allergies, doctor's details).
• Ask your doctor or dietitian how to take care of your diet and how to increase your physical activity, which are essential factors for managing diabetes.
  

In the city of studies:

• Find out if there are endocrinologists, diabetologists, health centers or hospitals in the city where you are studying.
• Make sure there are pharmacies near the house where you will be staying or in the student residence where you can obtain the necessary supplies in a time of need.
• Try, as much as possible with class hours, to maintain a consistent routine regarding taking medication, measuring blood sugar, and meals.
• Of course, fun, nightlife and late nights are inextricably linked to the student years! But try not to get carried away and always be in control of your diabetes and health. Yes to fun, no to binge drinking that can lead you to unpleasant or life-threatening situations.
• As time goes by and you make new friends, you will begin to feel safe with your new friends. When you feel ready, talk to your friends or your roommate, if you have one, about managing your diabetes so that they can help you in an emergency. Inform them about the symptoms of hypoglycemia and first aid in an emergency.
• Always carry a snack, juice, water, and diabetes essentials with you.
• Ensure proper and safe storage of consumables, glucagon and insulin whether you are at home, on a trip or at school.
• Have a medical ID or diabetes bracelet in case you need immediate medical intervention.
• It is very supportive to wear a continuous recording sensor and have an application on your mobile phone that monitors glucose levels and trends (for high or low values).
• Student life, stress, and studying can bring you tension that directly affects your glucose levels. You are not alone! Talk to friends and join groups or clubs if you think it will help you feel better! Share your feelings and enjoy the new challenges that open up before you!

From the parent's side

The stress for your children never goes away! As much as your heart beats when they are away from you, you must find the strength to let them follow their own path and learn to take care of themselves responsibly. You have certainly given them the right tools to pursue their dreams.

Show them trust and discreetly, but proudly, encourage them to love themselves and, by extension, their diabetes.

Technology is a valuable ally, knowledge is a necessary prerequisite and your continued support is a given.

Diabetes should not and should not be allowed to stand in the way of their goals, on the contrary, it can arm them with even more stubbornness and strength. They will surely pleasantly surprise you with the maturity they will show when you are not by their side. So give them the space and time they need and they will succeed, filling you with emotion and pride for the adult you have grown into.

And give yourself time to distance yourself from the worry of diabetes and get used to the new reality of your life!

So let them enjoy the path to independence responsibly and show them trust! They can succeed, learn from their mistakes and take control of their lives!

All first-year students deserve to have unforgettable student years and build a solid foundation for their future life! With self-love and dedication to their goals, success is a given!

Written by Marianna Metaxa
Educator, Author of the books "My Sweet Kelly" and the fairy tale "Melita and Zacharoulis" and lyricist of the song "Listen to My Heart" which was set to music by Sofia Grammenou