American Diabetes Month

November is American Diabetes Month (ADM), which strives to raise awareness of this ever-growing disease.  Nearly 26 million children and adults in the United States have diabetes, and another 79 million have pre-diabetes and are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes.  The American Diabetes Association estimates that the total national cost of diagnosed diabetes in the United States is $245 billion, which shows why it’s so important to understand the symptoms and risks for the disease.

There are several risk factors for type 1 diabetes including genetics and family history and having a pancreatic disease or injury.  The main risk factor for type 2 diabetes is obesity or being overweight, which is the single best predictor for getting the disease.
Below are a few tips to preventing diabetes:

Exercise You need at least a ½ hour of exercise per day. Studies have revealed that exercise lowers blood sugar and keeps it down for several hours after the exercise which also contributes to preventing diabetes.

Lose weight  About 80% of diabetics are overweight. By just losing weight and exercising, you can often control the symptoms of diabetes.

Do not eat trans fats Reduce saturated fat intake from animal products. The newest research shows that consuming trans fats has an impact on the development of diabetes. 

Don’t drink alcohol  Drinking alcohol can contribute to the development of type II diabetes by quickly raising blood sugar to unhealthy levels.

Overcoming Stigma

One of the many difficult aspects of addiction is dealing with the stigma that accompanies it - making it harder for individuals and their families to deal with their problems and get the help that they need.  Stigma involves labeling, stereotyping, social rejection, and exclusion, as well as clients internalizing society’s negative view of addiction and feeling shameful.

Personal strategies to deal with stigma include concealing the problem, withdrawing from social situations and selective disclosure, which all prevent individuals from seeking the help that they need.

Below are some helpful tips to deal with stigma:

• Get treatment. You may be reluctant to admit you have a condition that needs treatment. Don't let the fear of being "labeled" with addiction or a mental illness prevent you from seeking help.
• Don't let stigma create self-doubt and shame. Stigma doesn't just come from others. Seeking help, educating yourself, and connecting with others can help you overcome destructive self-judgment.
• Don't isolate yourself. Reach out to people you trust for the compassion, support and understanding you need. 

BCCS Director Interviewed About Club Drug Molly

Domenica Personti, BCCS Director of Adolescent Services and Prevention, spoke with WDEL 1150 AM about the prevalence of the club drug molly in DE.

Click here to watch the video and read excerpts from the interview.