For people living with type 1 diabetes, daily life can be a complex routine of monitoring, calculating, and adjusting. The condition demands constant attention, and while self-management is key, having a supportive partner can make a significant difference. One diabetes advocate, Mila Clarke, sheds light on this dynamic in a recent piece where she discusses how her partner’s involvement has helped lighten the emotional and physical load of diabetes care.

Clarke, a board-certified integrative nutrition diabetes health coach and the founder of the Hangry Woman blog, has lived with type 1 diabetes since 2016. Her experience navigating this condition has not only shaped her personal life but also fueled her professional mission to support others. Through her blog and the Glucose Guide Community app, she aims to build confidence and knowledge for those managing diabetes. In her recent article, she explores the question: How important is it that a partner takes an active interest in diabetes management?

She begins with a thoughtful perspective. Clarke makes it clear that she doesn’t believe it’s anyone else’s responsibility to manage her condition. She acknowledges the complexity and unpredictability of diabetes, describing it as a “constantly moving goal post” and “frankly annoying to deal with.” Her stance is empathetic and grounded—she doesn’t fault anyone who finds it difficult to engage with such a demanding aspect of someone else’s health.

Despite this, Clarke shares that her own partner does take an active and genuine interest in her care. Their relationship began with open communication about boundaries, which allowed her to express what kind of help she welcomed. This early conversation laid the foundation for a supportive partnership that respects both autonomy and collaboration. I found this detail striking, as it underscores how essential communication is when navigating chronic conditions within a relationship.

Clarke recounts several ways her partner contributes to her diabetes management. From helping calculate carbohydrate content in meals to gently waking her when her glucose monitor alarms in the middle of the night, his support comes in many small but meaningful forms. He has also learned how to administer glucagon in case of a severe low, understands the importance of having snacks ready, and even helps apply overpatches when her devices are in hard-to-reach spots. These actions may seem minor on their own, but together, they create a safety net that allows Clarke to feel less isolated in her condition.

Her partner’s help with practical tasks—like freeing a stuck sensor or offering his pockets to carry diabetes supplies—reflects a thoughtful awareness of her daily needs. Clarke emphasizes that these “little things” make a big impact, lightening the emotional and logistical burden of living with diabetes. It’s a reminder that support doesn’t have to be grand or dramatic to be valuable. Often, it’s the consistent, quiet gestures that matter most.

But what if a partner isn’t naturally inclined to get involved? Clarke offers a compassionate approach. She encourages those feeling overwhelmed or burned out by their diabetes management to open a dialogue. A suggested starting point: “Hey, I’ve been feeling a bit burned out with my diabetes management lately, and I think I need some support. Can I share some ways I’d love help?” This kind of invitation can lead to better understanding and potentially more involvement. At the same time, Clarke advises not to take it personally if a partner needs time or isn’t comfortable stepping into a caregiver role. Respecting each other’s boundaries remains essential.

Her insights highlight an important truth about chronic illness and relationships: support is deeply personal and should be guided by mutual respect and open communication. For some, like Clarke, a partner’s involvement might include hands-on help with devices and calculations. For others, it might mean emotional encouragement or simply being present during challenging moments. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, but the conversation itself is a crucial step.

Clarke’s story also touches on the broader issue of diabetes burnout—a common experience for many living with type 1 diabetes. The constant vigilance required can lead to emotional exhaustion, and having someone to share the journey with can ease that burden. Her example demonstrates how a partner’s support, even in small doses, can provide both practical help and emotional reassurance.

As more people seek to understand the realities of diabetes management, Clarke’s advocacy offers a valuable perspective. Her work through the Glucose Guide Community and her writing on platforms like HealthCentral continue to empower individuals to take control of their health while also fostering supportive networks around them. For those wondering how to navigate diabetes within a relationship, her experience offers both guidance and hope.

Whether you're managing type 1 diabetes yourself or supporting someone who is, Clarke’s reflections serve as a gentle reminder: support doesn’t have to be perfect, but it can be powerful. From calculating carbs to simply holding space for a tough day, every act of care counts.

Read more at healthcentral.com