Managing Type 1 Diabetes is a 24/7 job. There are no breaks, no “day off,” and no holidays from checking blood sugars, counting carbs and managing insulin. Over time, this constant responsibility can feel overwhelming- not just for children and teenagers living with diabetes, but also for the parents and caregivers who support them.

This feeling of exhaustion, frustration or even indifference towards diabetes management is called diabetes burnout. It can happen at any age, from toddlers to teens (and yes, parents too!). But the good news? It’s completely normal, and there are ways to manage and prevent it.

So, let’s break it down- what does burnout look like at different stages, and how you can help yourself or your child get back on track…

Managing Type 1 Diabetes is a non-stop job. There’s no clocking off, no weekends away from insulin injections, and certainly no “out of office” when it comes to blood sugar monitoring. Whether you’re a parent supporting your child or teenager through it or a teenager dealing with it yourself, it’s easy to feel like diabetes is taking over your life.

You check blood sugars, count carbs, adjust insulin, deal with highs and lows- all while juggling school, social life, sports and everything else. Some days, it feels manageable. Other days, it feels completely overwhelming.

But here’s the thing: you don’t have to be perfect.

Taking breaks (both mentally and physically) and setting realistic expectations aren’t just okay- they’re necessary…

Managing Type 1 Diabetes in toddlers and young children can feel like an endless cycle of finger pricks, carb counting and insulin doses. For little ones (and their parents), this can be overwhelming- and sometimes exhausting. What if there was a way to turn diabetes care into something fun?

Play is a child’s natural way of learning and coping with challenges. By using toys, books and role-playing, parents can help make diabetes management less stressful and more engaging. Here’s how you can incorporate play into your child’s diabetes routine to reduce burnout and encourage a positive attitude toward their care…

Managing T1D as a teenager is no easy feat. Between exams, friendships, late-night snacks and the occasional rebellion, keeping on top of blood sugar levels can feel like an exhausting extra subject in the school of life. If your teen is showing signs of frustration, exhaustion or even outright ignoring their diabetes care, they may be experiencing diabetic burnout- and trust us, they’re not alone…