Newly diagnosed

 2018-12-13

If you are here at “First 30 Days” it most likely means you or someone you know and probably love, has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Let us be the first to say, “We’re sorry,” but we are glad you have found your way here.

On this page you’ll find the following:

  • The Basic Basics – what you need to know now
  • The Next Layer – information for beyond the initial diagnosis
  • Teaching type 2 to others – guides for anyone who needs to be in the know
  • Personal stories – written about diagnosis plus additional support

 

The Basic Basics

A diabetes diagnosis is overwhelming—some say like swimming with sharks. These Basic Basics are just that—the basics you need in the first few days of adjusting. There’s always more in-depth information available, but for now, here are our selections for getting out of the hospital or doctor’s office.

Just Diagnosed with Diabetes? Why and How to Find Mental Health Support


Just diagnosed with diabetes? No matter how you're feeling right now, you deserve help; here's how to find it.MORE

How Often Should You Check Your Blood Sugar?


The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and the American Diabetes Association and recommend the following:MORE

What is Type 2 Diabetes?


Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body cannot properly use insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar. This is also known as insulin resistance. MORE

How to check blood sugar


Regular blood sugar monitoring is the most important thing you can do to manage type 2 diabetes. You’ll be able to see what makes your numbers go up or down, such as eating different foods, taking ...MORE

Understanding Your A1C


The A1C is a blood test that helps determine if your diabetes management plan is working well. It’s done every 2-3 months to find out what your average blood sugar has been.MORE

Exercise Basics


Managing type 2 diabetes while exercising is unique to the individual and depends on many variables including the activity, health needs, length and duration of the training, upcoming competitions, et...MORE

Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes


Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease that affects the way the body metabolizes glucose. Those with T2D are finding that their body either resists the effects of the insulin they are producing or that ...MORE

Diabetes: Causes, Risks and Symptoms


Learning the Basics of Type 2 Diabetes MORE

Diabetes ABCs


Type 2 diabetes management can be overwhelming, but understanding the basics of which numbers to pay attention can simplify it. The three numbers you should know are A1C, Blood pressure, and Cholester...MORE

Type 2 Diabetes: Where Do I Start?


You’ve just been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and if we’re being honest, you’re probably nervous about the lifestyle changes you will have to make and don’t know where to begin. The good new...MORE

All about Metformin


Metformin belongs to the family of Biguanides which are the drugs that increase insulin sensitivity and therefore have a beneficial effect in blood glucose management, particularly in insulin resistan...MORE

Learning About Blood Glucose Levels


Different studies and publications indicate that the appearance of complications will depend on monitoring blood sugars. To delay complications, it's vital that we work to maintain adequate blood...MORE

Diabetes Myths Debunked


We're debunking the most frequent myths that we hear in the diabetes community. MORE

Smoking and Type 2 Diabetes


Learn all about how smoking increases the chances of developing Type 2 diabetes and diabetes complications. If you smoke, we provide tips on how to quit.MORE

How to Stay Consistent with Diabetes Management


Managing diabetes is easier when you have a routine you can stick to. Learn how to stay consistent with diabetes management.MORE

Saving on Diabetes Supplies


If you need to get some diabetes supplies immediately, learn how you can get them over-the-counter and save money.MORE

10 Ways to Identify False Advertising


It's easy to be misled about the accuracy of products to treat Type 2 diabetes. Here are 10 ways to identify false advertising on products that claim to treat Type 2 diabetes and related health c...MORE

Ask a CDCES: Why Was I Diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes or Prediabetes?


Wonder why you were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes? We asked Diabetes care and education specialist, Jodi Lavin-Tompkins.MORE

All About Sulfonylureas (SFUs)


The first oral medications that, in addition to metformin, have been widely used for diabetes management were sulfonylureas, also known as (SFUs). Let's talk about them.MORE

Ask a DCES: How Can I Feel More Comfortable at the Doctor’s Office?


Going to the doctor's office can be intimidating. Diabetes care and education specialist, Jodi Lavin-Tompkins, gives you tips on easing anxiety at your next visit.MORE

Ask a DCES: What Can I Eat?


Being newly diagnosed with T2D can bring so many questions, particularly, "what can I eat?" Jodi explains how to approach food with diabetes.MORE

All About SGLT-2s


SGLT-2 Inhibitors are one of the treatment options to manage type 2 diabetes. Learn the brand names, benefits and side effects to taking this drug. MORE

How to Get the Best Use Out of Your Test Strips


Limited number of test strips per month? Read our tips on how to get the best use + data of out of them. MORE

Just Diagnosed With Diabetes? Here’s Who You Need on Your Team


Just diagnosed with diabetes or feel like you need more support with an existing diagnosis? Remember—you don't have to do this alone.MORE

The Rise of Prediabetes Diagnoses


There has been an increase in the number of people diagnosed with prediabetes. We spoke with Dr. Mayer B. Davidson to learn why.MORE

How To Help Me With A Low Blood Sugar


Use this easy printable guide to teach everyone you know how to help with a severe low blood sugar.MORE

Driving with Diabetes: Guide for Truck + Delivery Drivers


If you’re a delivery or truck driver and recently diagnosed with diabetes, here’s how to continue safely driving with diabetes.MORE

The Next Layer


Diabetes Complications


The unfortunate truth: having diabetes can significantly increase your risk for additional health problems. Potential complications can develop over time if blood glucose levels aren’t diligently ma...MORE

Insulin Delivery Methods


Today, there are a variety of insulin delivery methods to choose from as a person with Type 2 diabetes. Learn about your options here!MORE

Hypoglycemia and How to Treat It


Hypoglycemia, also known as low blood sugar, is when your blood sugar level drops below 70. Having low blood sugar is dangerous and needs to be treated right away. Left untreated, hypoglycemia can lea...MORE

Hyperglycemia and How to Treat It


High blood sugar is also called hyperglycemia. It means that your blood sugar level is higher than your target level. Having high blood sugar levels over time can lead to long-term, serious health pro...MORE

CGM: Continuous Glucose Monitor


A continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) is a small wearable device that tracks your glucose levels in real-time throughout the day and night.MORE

Blood Sugar Control—During and After Exercise


We walk you through different scenarios in which you can expect your blood sugar to rise or fall during and after exercise.MORE

Is Type 2 Diabetes Hereditary?


The answer to this question may not be what you think. MORE

When Medications are Prescribed for Type 2 Diabetes Management


Doctors follow a set of protocols to determine when to recommend medications to T2D patients. Learn when they're likely to prescribe them.MORE

Alternate Blood Sugar Site Testing: What to Know


Did you know you can test your blood sugar in places other than your finger? Here's what to know about alternate site testing. MORE

Syringes vs. Pens vs. Smart Pens: Pros and Cons


Need a quick breakdown of the pros + cons of syringes, insulin pens, and a smart pen? Learn which insulin delivery method may work for you.MORE

My Glucose is in Range. Am I Cured?


Your glucose is in range consistently, but does that mean your Type 2 diabetes is gone? No. A diabetes educator tells you why. MORE
Ginger Vieira wearing freestyle libre

This Program Lets You Try the Freestyle Libre CGM for Free


You can try the Freestyle Libre continuous glucose monitor for two weeks at no cost with the My Freestyle program.MORE

Blood Glucose Is Affected By More Than Just Food


Many factors affect blood glucose levels besides food. Learn how physical activity, temperature, stress and other elements play a role.MORE

Self-Advocacy Cards For Your Next Doctor Appointment


Need help advocating for yourself during doctor appointments? Here are some cards you can use to help address your concerns with a doctor.MORE

How to Establish New Eating Habits With Diabetes


Learning how to create new eating habits doesn't need to be overwhelming. Here are tips on how to get started.MORE

Teaching Type 2 to Others


What is Type 2 Diabetes?


Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body cannot properly use insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar. This is also known as insulin resistance. MORE

The Friends and Family Guide to Type 2 Diabetes


Consider this guide to help you navigate Type 2 as a friend or family member.MORE

Test Strip Subscription Guide


Test strips can be costly, but you may be able to save money by signing up for a test strip subscription service. Learn about your options here. MORE

Medical ID Guide


If the situation ever arises, wearing a medical ID can make sure that you receive the attention and care you need in the event of an emergency. Whether you’re considering getting your first medical ...MORE

How to Give an Insulin Injection


Read our step-by-step guide on how to give an insulin injection to yourself or a person who lives with Type 2 diabetes.MORE

The Type 2 Guide to Insulin


Understanding the body's relationship with insulin is a crucial part of diabetes education.MORE

The Type 2 Guide to Blood Glucose Meters


Blood Glucose Meters (BGMs) are an important tool for those with type 2 diabetes to utilize for accurate tracking of blood sugar levels.MORE

Diabetes: Causes, Risks and Symptoms


Learning the Basics of Type 2 Diabetes MORE

Smoking and Type 2 Diabetes


Learn all about how smoking increases the chances of developing Type 2 diabetes and diabetes complications. If you smoke, we provide tips on how to quit.MORE

Saving on Diabetes Supplies


If you need to get some diabetes supplies immediately, learn how you can get them over-the-counter and save money.MORE
medications for type 2 diabetes

Medication Options for Type 2 Diabetes


There are so many treatment options for type 2 diabetes today—it can be a little overwhelming. But it’s really important to find what works for you!MORE

What to Expect As A New Diabetes Caregiver


No one expects a loved one to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Here’s what you can expect when caring for someone living with diabetes. MORE

How To Help Your Parent After a Diabetes Diagnosis Without Becoming Their Parent


While supporting your parent with their diagnosis is a loving thing to do, there is a fine line between helping enough and being invasive.MORE

Stories


The Wake-Up Call I Gave Myself


Melissa lived for years relying on medication, but she realized that she needed to take her management into her own hands to be truly healthy and happy.MORE

How to Get the Best Use Out of Your Test Strips


Limited number of test strips per month? Read our tips on how to get the best use + data of out of them. MORE

What is DKA? (Diabetic Ketoacidosis)


Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a complication from diabetes that can be serious and life-threatening. DKA can develop in many people with type 2 diabetes prior to be diagnosed, but...MORE

“I Needed to Demand the Best”: How I Became My Own Diabetes Advocate


A diabetes advocate shares how she fought to get the care she deserved after her type 1 diabetes diagnosis.MORE
diabetes complications

Double Diagnosis: Type 2 Diabetes + Common Complications


The day of your diabetes diagnosis can be especially overwhelming if it also comes with the discovery of other health concerns.MORE

How I’ve Dealt with My “Freshman” Year of Type 2 Diabetes


Bill Santos was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 2018. He likens adjusting to diabetes to living in a new country and reflects on the changes he made in his first "freshman" year of having ...MORE

Diagnosed with Type 2 Without Experiencing the Typical Symptoms


Antionette Blake is a multi-award winning blogger from Delaware and the owner of ABlake Enterprises, a social media management & consulting company. Antionette was recently diagnosed with Type 2 d...MORE

These accounts of a type 2 diagnosis are written by people who have gone through it. They understand the wide range of emotions that one experiences —denial, anger, fear and grief. You might be just beginning your journey with this new reality, but others have gone before you and their stories can only help light the way. Remember, you are not alone.

Check out the other personal experiences from others with type 2 diabetes here and our global social media campaign, #BeyondPowerful on Instagram.

Do you have a personal story you’d like to share? Follow this link to submit your story on how type 2 diabetes has impacted your life. Your story contributes to our growing community of people living with type 2 diabetes and brings a new perspective to our fight in redefining what it means to live with it.

Connect

Find us on social media   

Facebook – Beyond Type 2

Twitter – @beyondtype2

Instagram – @beyondtype2

Find us in español

Facebook – @beyondtype2ESP

Our other T2 programs

EsTuDiabetes www.estudiabetes.org

TuDiabetes www.tudiabetes.org

Our website is full of useful guides and personal stories from all walks of life. You’ve just started, so try to not get too overwhelmed. Take it one day at a time! And don’t forget to give yourself a break—it’s a lot to take in. We know, because we’ve been there.