Everyone could use a little support at some point in their lives, but having a chronic illness can raise the need for a specific type of support. Living with diabetes can be challenging, discouraging, and at times confusing. Having support from others who deal with the same challenges can be helpful for advice, support, and to talk with someone who just understands.
The benefits of having an online support group include 24-7 availability, access to information that would otherwise not be available, ability to be anonymous, information on what works for other Type 1 diabetics, and information on how to jump through certain "hoops" (getting help at school, what carbohydrates are good for snacks, etc).
Most of the support groups are not overseen by a licensed medical professional and could possibly relay information that is not correct or medically safe. It is important when soliciting advice from strangers on the internet to talk with your doctor before making changes to your medical routine. It is important to research the information given, through online forums, to check for accuracy.
Type One Nation (https://typeonenation.org/) is an online support group for Type 1 diabetics. There are different categories available for you to click on where you can chat with other members and get information. The categories include Newly Diagnosed, Parents, Coping & Support, Technology Management, and more. There are subheadings that allow a person to ask questions and receive information from other members in the group.
Type 1 Diabetes Support and Information, on Facebook, is a page dedicated to the Type 1 diabetic community. There are 40,139 people who follow this Facebook page. This is a place where anyone interested in diabetic support can come, post questions, and get answers from other people who deal with diabetes (either personally or for a loved one). There is a large number of subscribers to this page, so information asked is usually replied to quickly.
Children with Diabetes (http://www.childrenwithdiabetes.com/) is a website where parents can come together, get support, and present questions to other parents. This website also has useful information to help a parent who is navigating a child through this chronic illness.
McCarthy, K. (2017, August 02). 6 major benefits of online support groups. Retrieved from https://www.nuemd.com/news/2017/08/02/6-major-benefits-online-support-groups
Levenston, G. (2016). The benefits of support groups. Retrieved from https://www.diabetesresearch.org/diabetes-support-group-benefits
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