Dating With Diabetes: Tips for Navigating Romantic Relationships

Being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes is a challenging experience, and honestly, it left me feeling overwhelmed. I was especially overwhelmed when thinking about navigating the romantic side of my life. The good news? I don't let my diagnosis stand in the way of having meaningful relationships with others.

Tips for managing type 2 diabetes while dating

The tricky part is figuring out how to manage my diabetes while dating and staying healthy. Here are a few tips I've picked up along the way through my dating experiences that I would like to share.

1. Tell people about your diabetes early and often

It's important for me to be transparent, disclose my diagnosis early on in a relationship, and make sure that it's something I keep at the forefront of the conversation.

Whether I'm out on a date or getting to know someone online, I like to make sure my partner is aware of any potential health needs associated with my diabetes, such as access to snacks or water during an outing.

2. Have fun

A reminder that I like to keep for myself is that dating while living with diabetes doesn't have to mean that I can't enjoy the same activities as someone without diabetes.

Whether going for a long walk, taking a dance class, or doing something else I would enjoy with a person, I remember that managing my diabetes doesn't mean giving up on having an exciting and passionate relationship with someone.

3. Prioritize self-care

When I'm out on a date, it can be easy to forget about self-care and managing my diabetes symptoms if I feel nervous, overwhelmed, or excited. I must remember to carry my glucose tablets, check my blood sugar levels if I am not wearing a CGM (continuous glucose monitor), and bring snacks, just in case. Focusing on myself and my type 2 diabetes helps me stay healthy and in control while dating.

4. Manage stress with healthy outlets

Let's face it: dating can get stressful! When I'm stressed, it can impact my glucose levels. It behooves me to manage my stressors with healthy outlets.

I like to practice open conversations with my romantic partner and think of activities that make me happy and calm, such as taking a yoga class, going for walks, or listening to calming music.

5. Accept that some people may not want to date you

The harsh reality is that some people may not want to date someone living with type 2 diabetes, and that's okay. I focus my energy on those who support me and don't let the haters bring me down.

6. Type 2 diabetes is just one part of you

Living with diabetes is only one part of my identity; it doesn't define my entire self. I recognize that dating includes more than just managing my health and illness - finding someone with whom I can share similar values, interests, and goals is key to forming a strong relationship.

Overall, the most important thing to remember is that living with type 2 diabetes doesn't have to stop me from forming meaningful romantic relationships - it just takes a bit of work and getting creative. With the right person by my side, I know that I can make it work!

Stay positive and hopeful with type 2 diabetes

If I can share my greatest advice, it would be not to let diabetes keep you from dating. Stay positive and remain hopeful! With a bit of effort, I know I can find someone who loves me for me, diabetes and all.