Diabetes Support and Getting Active

Diabetes is the name given to a group of conditions in which there is too much glucose (sugar) in the blood. Glucose is the body’s main source of fuel or energy. High blood glucose levels can affect many parts of the body but with the right advice, technology and medication diabetes can be managed well.

The different types of diabetes

There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes.

Read more about type 1 diabetes and exercise
Read more about type 2 diabetes and exercise

Support groups bring together people who share common experiences, conditions, concerns, goals or interests. They offer people an opportunity to improve their quality of life through mutual support and education. They can also bring about change for themselves and the wider community.

Support program is a service offered by Diabetes Victoria to facilitate and empower all members of diabetes support groups. There are both type 1 and type 2 specific peer support groups. These groups help:

• Provide information to members and the general public about Diabetes Victoria.
• Facilitate and coordinate community education forums in metropolitan Melbourne, regional and rural areas.
• Work with health care professionals including dietitians, podiatrists, exercise physiologists and diabetes educators to raise awareness of diabetes complications and management.
• Advocates for change and better lifestyle options through community support and education.

Sharing experiences is a powerful way of learning how to manage diabetes. Meeting other people with diabetes can help reduce the isolation that people may feel and be a source of support when needed. The Diabetes Victoria type 1 peer support groups provide an opportunity for people to access type 1 diabetes specific information and support in their local community.

If you are looking for a support group in your local area, phone the appropriate contact listed on the Diabetes Victoria Type 1 Support Group

Research has shown that members of support groups, such as the type 2 peer support groups, are more confident about their diabetes, are less depressed and less stressed – in part because they have the knowledge to better manage their diabetes.

Type 2 peer support groups can help you better understand how to manage your type 2 diabetes as well as understand how to live with a chronic illness in a positive and empowering environment.

You will make new friends and learn from others by sharing experiences and information. You will also build skills and knowledge to help you advocate for yourself and for the needs of others within Diabetes Victoria.

If you are looking for a support group in your local area, phone the appropriate contact listed on the Diabetes Victoria Type 2 Support Group

For more information about exercise, diabetes type 1 or 2 and different populations, speak to our exercise physiologists at our Melbourne Clinic at Moonee Valley Health and Fitness.

Get in touch with us today and book an initial consultation with our Melbourne Exercise Physiologist’s. Exercise is one of the most effective ways to prevent and treat diabetes.