Confidence at School or Work: How to Handle Awkward T1D Moments
Living with type 1 diabetes can feel routine when you’re at home - but in a classroom, office, or meeting, even simple tasks like checking your CGM or grabbing a snack can suddenly feel awkward. People stare. Questions fly. And sometimes you just want to blend in.
Here’s how to turn those moments into opportunities to feel calm, capable, and confident.
1. Own your routine - it’s a sign of strength
If you need to test your blood sugar or take insulin, do it confidently. A quick, calm action shows you’re in control - and most people respect that. If someone asks, a simple line like “Just checking my blood sugar, I’ve got type 1 diabetes” is usually enough.
Confidence tip: Rehearse this sentence out loud so it feels natural. That way, when someone asks, you won’t be caught off guard.
2. Answer questions simply - or not at all
Curiosity is normal, but you don’t have to give a medical lecture. A friendly one-liner can satisfy most people’s questions. If you’re busy, it’s perfectly fine to say, “Happy to explain later, I just need to take care of this quickly.”
Confidence tip: Keep your tone light and move on - it prevents the moment from feeling tense or awkward.
3. Keep a ‘confidence kit’ with you
Whether you’re heading to class, a meeting, or a presentation, having your essentials in one place makes everything less stressful. Carry snacks, your blood glucose monitor, insulin pens, and spare pump supplies so you’re never caught off guard.
Confidence tip: A dedicated diabetes bag - like the T1DE Essential Crossbody Bag - means you don’t have to scramble. Everything’s organised, accessible, and right where you need it, every time.
4. Choose your seat wisely
Little choices add up to big comfort. If you’re in a lecture hall or conference room, sit where you can easily leave if needed. It’s not about drawing attention - it’s about setting yourself up to handle anything smoothly.
5. Remember - you’re educating people without even trying
Every time you check your blood sugar or take insulin in public, you’re helping normalise type 1 diabetes. What feels ‘awkward’ to you might actually make someone else more understanding and supportive.
Confidence takeaway
With type 1 diabetes, confidence isn’t about pretending nothing’s happening - it’s about handling it naturally and moving forward. A calm routine, a ready answer, and a well-packed bag go a long way in turning awkward moments into no-big-deal moments.
Carry confidence with you - wherever your day takes you.
