Being diagnosed with diabetes is never easy. You may feel anger, sadness, guilt, fear ... or all of them at the same time. You may be sort of numb, and not feel much of anything for a while. Remember, whatever your feelings are — or aren't — they are normal, and many of them will pass or change with time. Most important, remember that you are still you and that you are not alone.

Lots to LearnLiving with diabetes is a new challenge, for you and for your family, too. You will have a lot to learn in order to manage your diabetes day to day, and to care for yourself. Your family, friends, teachers, and other people who are close to you will have a lot to learn, too. It can feel overwhelming for all of you at first. This is normal, too. Remembering to take it one day at a time can help. As time goes on, you — and they — will feel more and more confident in your knowledge about the disease and your ability to handle it.

Lots of Hope Keep in mind that the treatments for diabetes are improving all the time, and that even though your life will change, it can still be a full and active life.

The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation's mission is to find a cure for diabetes.  We are making amazing progress.  But until there is a cure, helping to take care of the needs of people with diabetes, and their families and friends, is every bit as important to us.  We want to give you the information and resources you need to keep you as strong, healthy, and confident as possible.