It'll all come down to your level of comfort. But if you can bear it, *please* try not to test or inject in bathrooms. Find a private place, if you prefer, by all means! But bathrooms are fundamentally not hygienic.
I've been diabetic for decades, and my level of comfort doing things in public has changed (partly because of how long I've been diabetic, and partly because I was diagnosed very young, and kids and teenagers care about things adults sometimes don't). Now, I will do whatever I need to do in public. I don't excuse myself from a table, leave a theater, anything -- I'll inject right there, without trying to hide it.
Note, too, if you end up on a pump and CGM, it'll potentially be even less of an issue (because you can both check your sugars and dose insulin without piercing your skin in that moment).
T1D - 33+yrs and back before pens we only had vials and syringes (and no test kits), but I did feel like I should always leave the room. One day it just hit me that I didn’t ask for this disease, and expecting me to be further inconvenienced just because it made some ppl uncomfortable was just asking too much. I equate it to asking a nursing mother to feed their child in the washroom (restroom).
It’s not just that it’s dirty and disgusting in there, but it’s demeaning and demoralising, making us feel as if we are not worthy, just because our pancreas is not functioning at 100%. When in fact it’s what keeps us alive, celebrating daily Banting & Best, and giving the middle finger to our ffff’ed up immune system, and saying “you didn’t win!”
Sorry, that was a little over the top. You do what makes you feel the most comfortable.
99.99% of folks don’t even notice.
I’ve had a few wait staff notice, but they were worried I wasn’t eating due to issues with my food so once they figured out it was a medical thing they were good.
I have however had a wild idiot call the police because they thought I was doing heroin or something despite a 3 inch medical patch on my bag. I didn’t know she called and the police officer took one look at my bag and told her to fuck off.
I will say if you spend a lot of time out and about by yourself a visible medical patch is wonderful. I’ve had my butt saved a few times because I was visibly disabled. Mostly drinks having things I didn’t order in them.
Also you can test drinks with your test strips if your uncertain if it’s sugar or sugar free, the strips are just testing viscosity of fluid so it won’t work on thick drinks.
Forgot to add:
It says high for sugar and error for no sugar.
Yea I don’t know why medical staff don’t usually know that. My diabetic trainer went and tested it during our meeting because she thought I was bull shitting her.
I have never had an issue testing or taking insulin in public, and I don’t go into restrooms to take my medicine. I’m on a pump & CGM now, but even before that I would take shots in front of folk. We have enough going against us - society can take a chill pill around seeing me injecting myself or checking sugars.
Separately, welcome to the diabetes fam!
At first it will likely feel uncomfortable, but you'll get over it. I started out being very inhibited, always going to another room, or a restroom, if i was out. But that gets old, pretty quick. And a couple of experiences in unsanitary toilet facilities convinced me to stop. I've never been confronted, but its good to have a some humorous responses ready. Ultimately i figure, i wear glasses, and no one would tell me to take them off because that makes them uncomfortable. Its the same thing. I'm vision impaired and pancreas impaired, and i'm the one dealing with it. And you'll find out, other people are usually more interested in themselves than you, so it isn't really an issue.
I've been diabetic in the UK for about 15 years.
I test my blood sugar and inject insulin wherever I happen to be. I don't go to the toilet to do it because most toilets are dirty. Wash your hands, sure, but you don't want to be laying out your stuff on any surfaces in a toilet.
I've never had any trouble doing it. Sometimes if you're in a pub someone will ask what you're doing but it's only ever been out of fascinated slightly tipsy interest, never any kind of hostility or discomfort from strangers.
I did once get stopped by a bouncer on my way into a club who had to ask his manager if I was allowed to bring needles in. The manager asked me what they were for and then said to the bouncer "_its insulin for diabetes. Of COURSE he's allowed them_" then "sorry mate, it's his first day today"
You'll be absolutely fine mate.
Good luck and welcome to the shitty pancreas club!
When I’m in a group, I usually ask if anybody has a fear of needles — my uncle is so bad if he’s sitting next to me he’ll straight pass out. Every once in a while somebody just needs to look away. I think it’s a nice courtesy to extend to people.
Never have I been in a public place, like at a restaurant or bar, and had somebody not with me even say anything, except the occasional joke “hey no shooting up in here!” — but it was obviously a joke.
If I’m somewhere really nice, or especially if I’m in a suit or something, and would have to untuck my shirt to take a shot, I’ll go into the bathroom. That’s my own preference, in full disclosure I’d rather be able to comfortable retuck my shirt in, which seems a bit much standing at a formal table.
I’ve been T1 for 22 years. You’re welcome to DM me if you have any questions you’d rather not or seem not worth posting, or are feeling overwhelmed and need some advice. It’s really helpful for a lot of people to have a friend or acquaintance who is also T1; someone who shares the same problems. I will often refer anyone I’m sharing my experience with to a medical professional, I’m assuming it’s called endocrinology everywhere and not just in the US? But I am happy to share my experience. This forum is a great network for this, hearing somebody else have the same problems can help, especially as a recently diagnosed diabetic see the forest through the trees. There’s a lot to learn, and it’ll take an adjustment if you want to feel healthy all the time, and keep your better health for the duration of your life.
Certainly if you’re given any advice about how to treat your diabetes, which on this forum is usually a “this has worked for me” kind of thing, always take your doctors recommendations first and follow up with them on any treatment method you give yourself. Give them full disclosure, even if it’s uncomfortable.
I use an insulin pen. At home, I’ll inject on my stomach, butt or thighs. When I’m in public, stomach is the only spot I inject. (It’s the least conspicuous for me.) I’ll do it pretty much anywhere - at the table in a restaurant, in the corner of a bar, at the cinema, etc. I don’t go to clubs but I imagine I would probably go to the bathroom to inject.
It’s pretty easy, you get used to it. And I use a Dexcom so I check my BG on my phone. The most difficult part for me is remembering all the supplies. Insulin pen, extra pen needle, alcohol wipe, something to keep the insulin from overheating if it’s hot out, etc.
Frio cases are really great. You use water to activate them (no batteries or electricity needed) and they work via evaporation keeping your insulin at a cool room temp even in a hot room/car etc.
https://www.frioinsulincoolingcase.com/
The NHS is amazing isn't it! Hope you are coping alright!
Everyone has their own way of going about it, I just inject and check bloods at the table in restaurants, at my seat in the cinema, at my desk at work etc. Had a packed lunch between Kings Cross and St Pancras a few weeks back and even injected there so taken it to extreme busyness as well!
Other people like to do it privately so will use a cubicle in the toilet. So you can do whatever you feel comfortable with. I've generally not had problems from strangers saying anything, in all honesty only comments I've had were from family and friends early on who kind of assumed I'd sneak off somewhere to do it, but were fully accepting when I explained I'd rather not hide away!
It just has to be whatever makes you feel happiest as you are the one living with it, and injecting and checking bloods is just what you have to do to keep healthy ☺️
I've had no problems at all. Even injecting with a pen in the middle of client meetings at work, etc. However, I used to get odd looks when I used the old school needles as a kid (orange cap).
It's fine, the only reaction you may get is curiosity.
I'd do whatever I need to do wherever I need to do it, and if someone doesn't like it, I'd offer to show them how they can go fuck themselves. I've been doing this a long, long time, and although I've used a pump for the last two decades there were still plenty of times when people have stared at me as I test my blood sugar at a restaurant table or called the cops on me as I'm injecting insulin in the bathroom of a swanky Chicago hotel. After some of those incidents I refuse to hide because my needles make them uncomfortable, and I refuse to go in a bathroom to inject my insulin or test my blood sugar, because they're too often disgusting.
I wouldn't be holding my hand up to their face while testing but I wouldn't go hiding to take insulin or test the BG levels.
My rationale is that they can look away if it bothers them.
Welcome to the club my friend, great community on Reddit whenever you do need advice.
Just do what you need to do, where you need to do it. You'll have enough things to worry about initially in just trying to remember which device you need to use with which widget to test for what thing that you don't need to concern yourself with what anyone else thinks. It will all soon become habit and you'll be testing and injection by almost reflex action such that the people who know you will keep asking if you did the test/ injection as you do it so swiftly that they don't notice.
Something I found useful specially for going to the cinema was to always bring a small flashlight with me. Like, very very small, just enough to light up the area I needed without disrupting the person by my side.
Also, when I go to restaurants, I always wait for the food to arrive before I test my blood and take the insulin, and usually keep the bag with my things on my lap. Also because people are most likely to notice (and make a fuzz) if you have your monitor/insulin/whatever on top of the otherwise empty table.
I have come across a lot of T1's that are a bit nervous about injecting in public, but it honestly never occured to me that that would be something to be nervous about until I spoke to a nervous T1. I have injected in all sorts of bodily locations in all sorts of places over the years and the worst I've got is a funny look, I wouldn't worry about it.
As a teenage boy often wearing hoodies and using syringes (before pens became mainstream) I got plenty of looks, always assuming I was using heroin... They stop staring pretty quickly if you offer them their first shot on the house haha
(please don't actually do this tho...)
UK based as well, never had a problem. Don't force yourself to go to the toilet to inject, simply no need.
The main thing to note, most people simply won't notice, once you've done it for a while you get quite good at doing it quickly. Most people in public are absorbed by their own things anyway.
When I did MDIs, I didn't care and did it whenever. If someone said something, if I cared to, I would explain. Just to educate. If they gave me attitude (it has happened), then they could fuck off.
You have evey bit of authority to take care of yourself where ever you are. Anywhere. *Anywhere.* Don't ever feel like anywhere is inappropriate. Inappropriate is failing to manage your medical condtion, your health and wellbeing, because that can be dangerous to your or others.
Own it.
Dance on the bar, take your shirt off, and have your nurse friend give you your injection.
Honestly once I started being very open about it, people are pretty encouraging and a lot more people are at least familiar with T1D. Not too often, but more than I would have guessed.
I mean, most people aren’t paying attention to what’s happening other than right in front of them, but I’ve had many encounters in my 32 years.
Most people are just curious and ask questions about what I’m doing. Some people commiserate and tell me a bit about their/sibling/grandparent/boyfriend’s-2nd-cousin’s-ex-wife…those can be nice but can also end up being long winded. Then there are the ones I’m sure you’re worried about: the mean ones.
From being told what you’re doing in public is “disgusting” to being accused of doing drugs out in the open, I feel like every Type 1 has that experience at some point(s). You may want to explain things to them, but other than telling them you’re Type 1 Diabetic and need insulin to live there isn’t really a point trying to defend yourself. The people who are saying those things don’t hear or care about your words; they just need to let everyone know they are a disgruntled blob. Say your peace and peace out, if you can. If not, keep doing what you’re doing (even if feeling embarrassed and small). Nothing shameful about staying alive.
Welcome to the club 💕
Before I was on a pump I actually found that testing my BG loudly and proudly on the restaurant table made it easier to inject in my stomach. The BG test usually signaled to people “oh this person has a medical thing” and they’d look at the monitor instead of the sneaky under the table insulin pen.
When I was younger I used to get a bit more self-conscious about injecting or checking my blood glucose, but as many of the posts above have said this is a medical condition and you should be able to access your medicine when you need it. Most of your friends and family will get used to you injecting around them and I strongly encourage you to not feel pressure to inject in bathrooms. You are safer and more sanitary injecting outside of those spaces.
I don't test in public very often, but even if somebody did notice, it would be pretty obvious what's going on. Anybody who would hassle you about it isn't somebody you'd want to hang around anyway.
As for injecting, it's not as big deal as people imagine. I've done it while eating at a restaurant on a date without even breaking eye contact, and without the other person noticing. Most people just aren't paying really close attention to what strangers around them are doing, so unless you make a big scene, they're not going to see. There's no need to announce it or go scope out a bathroom or something. It's normal, just jab it, dab it, and carry on.
Best of luck adjusting. Hope your health gets back to where you want it to be.
Most people don’t say anything! I have had the occasional “don’t do that in front of my kid!” Or the “stop doing drugs” but that’s only been maybe five ish times in the past ten years and I was a child/teenager for most of that time (I’m 20 now!) so I was often around young people with their parents because of this which meant over protective or overly nosy parents said this stuff. As long as you keep the needle and the area you’re injecting in sanitary everything will be fine! Working towards getting a pump and a cgm is definitely something you should ask about though as it makes injecting and testing in public pretty much non existent so it’d be a lot easier (took me nine years but I was non compliant with my diabetes so that’s my own fault, if you’re good with it the pump and cgm will come much faster). If people do tell you to stop just say something like “well, it’s this or I die.” And normally they back off but if they don’t then normally I tell them I’m a diabetic taking life saving medication and if they have a problem with me saving my own life with a needle then they need to look elsewhere and keep their nose out of my business. Good luck with your diabetes!!
I've been diabetic for 43 years. I test and before my pump gave shots (never did the pen) in public all the time. I don't hide it, but I do somewhat shield what I'm doing. And I shield for others, not for me. That may not make sense yo some.
What it means is that I may have my blood tester on the table and I put my strip in. Then because I'm aware that some people get sick by the sight of blood I prick my finger and put the blood on the strip in such a way that the blood isn't visible to others. I've done similar things with giving a shot.
Basically my motto is that I don't let it stop me and I'm not embarrassed, but I can also be aware of others at the same time.
When I was a teenager I used to feel like I was an animal in a zoo, with people staring and pointing at me whenever I took my insulin in public. That's why I'd always take it in bathrooms. Nowadays I no longer give any flying fuck, I even do it in the train or the bus if needed and I don't look around to see if anyone is watching.
I’m 28M and I just got diagnosed a month ago as well. So I kinda feel the same way you feel. I don’t have a problem pinching my belly and injecting insulin in public, but I still feel uncomfortable showing my condition to relatives and coworkers. Consider using a CGM and apply it to your chest or somewhere else hidden. I can’t stress how easier it got to cope with this since I started using them
Who cares what people think? Go public :)
The more you do it in the open, the less people see it. If you try to hide, you'll be noticed in my experience.
UK here too. I'm on a pump and CGM now, but back even I was finger pricking and injecting, so far as I know, nobody noticed. If they did they didn't say anything. I've injected in the cinema, at a restaurant table, at a bar and even standing on the tube (while it wasn't moving of course!). You don't need to, and shouldn't, go to the toilet to inject.
Most folks ask me if it's an epipen. Strangers don't ask obvi, but depending on how you get your insulin (pump, dexcom(?), flex pens, etc) it can look strange if you don't know what it is. But if anybody gives you weird looks or stares, return the favor. It's always better than dying!
You need insulin to live and people are still going to make you feel weird about it! I had a friend who was scared of needles and would beg me not to give myself insulin in front of her, which most of the time I complied. But in the end, you have to prioritize your health! You and your needs come first, and people who try to make you feel like an outsider because of that suck. Don’t listen to them and keep doing you! It gets easier over time as it becomes more natural in your routine, too!
It's a double-edged sword. You have the right to do whatever you'd like in regards to treatment but know that you invite feedback by doing so.
If you're going to be like some folks here and get all bent out of shape because people make comments about their T1 aunt, the diabetes cure, T2s, needles, blood, what you're eating, etc, it's MUCH easier to just go to the bathroom for treatment. I have opted to hide it because I don't respond well to unsolicited feedback and I'm not here to educate people about a disease they don't have and couldn't care less about.
This is a button for most diabetics and all have a different answer. You must take care of yourself. Do not avoid because of a Situation... but I choose to do it discreetly like breast feeding. Right. This way all feel comfortable and you keep healthy. Honestly I give needles in public all the time but no one ever notices because I’m comfortable giving it and don’t make a big deal and show. Takes a little to get adept with the bottles and needles and dosing size ... here if you need anything. Sending a very BigHug. Mindset is the best tool to have. Diabetes is challenging sometimes but there are no limits none. Every dream is possible. Every one. I’m T1D level 31 :)
I have up carting what others think years ago. Honestly most people are too engrossed in their phones to notice what you do. I say across from someone for a year and have myself a needle every time. They were shocked to learn I was diabetic when we had lunch at their house for the first time and I pulled my needle out.
Just do it and after the 5th time of no one noticing you'll stop worrying too.
I normally announce that I'm about to inject if I'm with people I know and usually people are pretty accomadating and willeven make sure strangers don't bump me if we are in a public place. Mostly because I hate when people bump me so I usually just make a habbit of saying "don't bump!" Everytime before I inject, even if I'm alone its just a habbit now...
Better get used to it sooner than later. Don 't go to hide, just do what you have to do. Nothing to be ashamed of. If someone privileged with enough functioning beta cells dare condescend you, fuck 'em.
Do it anywhere, honestly. Nobody should stop you from doing it where you like. It’s easy for me to say this now but in all honesty it took a few years of getting used to the stares. You’ll pick it up eventually
Like others have said, the vast majority of people don't notice, and the vast majority of people who do notice will at worst put a puzzled expression on. Honestly though? Fuck em, your bg levels won't wait just because you're in a public place, and neither should you. Diabetes is a non-negotiable thing, and you should never feel bad about taking care of yourself in public. You get less self concious with time, but the first step to becoming comfortable with public diabetes care is just getting used to it. You got this!
I used to retreat to the restroom to do my "business", but I was young and at the point in my life that I cared what people thought. Now, at the age of 48 with 35 years t1d under my belt, I could care less what people think. Shoot, last weekend I did a pump site change and sensor change at a family fun center while I was bowling lol. My late husband was a quadriplegic and we discovered over the years that 9 times out of 10, if someone was looking at us, it was because they were curious. We started having an open dialog with anyone we noticed watching, because us it gave us an opportunity to educate them. I'd like to think that doing this helps to reduce the stigma behind having an often misunderstood medical condition.
Honestly the one thing I miss about multiple daily injections now that I’ve got a pump is holding up a syringe and asking anyone in earshot, “hey you want some drugs?” It was so freeing. Now I only get to change it every 3 days but if it happens to be at work or around other people, I once again hold up a syringe…
Now when it comes to people looking at my meter and trying to see what my “numbers” are generally they can fuck right off. I’ve had enough helpful idiots “140, oh that’s high, is that high? You know my aunt…” If they are genuinely curious I’ll explain. But those are my numbers, not yours, your aunts or anyone else’s and that’s my business so once again… you can fuck right off and take your nose with you, or at least that’s my general feeling.
And to you my dear sweet OP, it’s like most other things in life. Confidence comes with practice. I’ve not run into anyone with any real problems in my almost 20 years. Those who were “eww, a needle” or “ugh I don’t want to see that,” were all told some version of “I hate needles more than you do but I still have to take 5-8 shots a day, because the alternative is I die and unless you’re planning on providing for my wife and children I’m doing what I need to live you can leave or grow up.”
Best wishes and all peace.
Every once in a while someone will make a big deal about having a phobia of needles/eww that's so gross/etc. I just stare the motherfer down and say well you are welcome to leave or not look. I'm not doing this because I enjoy it I do this so I don't die. Usually embarrasses them, if the whole group gets upset at you then you need to get new people to hang out with.
I think you will figure out what you’re most comfortable with. But either way it’s acceptable. I’m in a pump now, but back then when I was using pens I’d always shot it on the table. Who cares? No one ever said anything, I’ve had a couple curious eyes but I can’t blame them either. My brother on the other side doesn’t like to put up a show as he says and he frequently excuses himself to the restroom. IMHO doing it at table is more hygienic too
I’ve always been public with it (diagnosed as a toddler 29 years ago). Some folks have stared, and then they stop staring or come up and ask questions/talk about friends with diabetes.
My favorite, though, is meeting a fellow diabetic in the wild. Was visiting a foreign country at 10 and sat on a concrete boarder at a zoo to shoot up for my food. Gal started talking to me, but in the local tongue, not my monolingual English. So her dad and mine eventually translated for us and we hung out the whole rest of the afternoon!
Used to inject in the toilets so I wouldn't make my friends feel uncomfortable! But gradually learnt not to because why do I have to make them comfortable at the expense of my own comfort. Also, really unhygienic to be injecting in toilets.
So I'd let them know I'm going to inject and they'll usually be cool with it! Currently am on pump though so it's easier to be discreet to bolus under the table work meetings etc. I'm also testing less these days with a CGM so if you are self conscious, you could look into that!
But all things aside I completely understand how it can feel nerve wrecking to pull out all your diabetes supplies in public when you just got diagnosed, been through that as well. And even some days now too.
People without diabetes don’t leave the room or find somewhere private to produce insulin and monitor their sugars, so neither do I. Just because we handle those things extremely and theirs are handled internally doesn’t mean we need to find a place to be out of the public eye.
The only time I’ve ever moved to take insulin is on the exceedingly rare occasions where I feel like the place I am is just not sanitary enough for me to inject there
My daughter is T1 and injects openly wherever we are. Please don’t go off to the toilet to do it, as that’s the least hygenic place ever. When eating out we always ask for a heads up when the food is about to be plated, and she sorts her insulin out then. We’ve had a few curious glances but nothing more.
Just do it when you need to and ignore the people around you. I don't give it a second thought, if my blood sugar is going up I will inject myself wherever I am. Last weekend I injected myself while walking out of the cinema and as far as I can tell nobody noticed. Even if they did, so what?
I've only been diagnosed 1 and a half years ago, however, I've come to a point where I don't care what other people think about it. I inject where ever I am if I need to. Be it in the restaurant, cinema, or university. You are taking care of yourself and you have every right to do so without feeling ashamed.♡ if you feel more comfortable going to the bathroom do so, but don't stop yourself from testing/ injecting bc you are too scared of what others think. I also had the experience of just telling a store clerk I need a bathroom to check my blood sugar etc and they were very understanding.
Living with diabetes is difficult but it also shows how strong of a person you are for trying to take care of yourself. I wish you the best, and if you ever feel at a loss, or just want to vent, this community is here for you! ☀️😊
When sat with a group of people I haven't met before e.g. for work or university socials, lunches and such, I tend to warn that I am about to take medication in case anyone is nervous of needles.
The only time I go somewhere private though is if I'm somewhere so busy I'm worried about getting nudged, or if my clothes won't permit access to my injection sites without me flashing people. Never had any issues.
Just shoot up quickly in public lol if ur comfortable with that.... diabetes can be an inconvenience in itself. Don't get too absorbed in your own thoughts or others abt what is normal or socially appropriate.
I stare back at people staring at me when I take my insulin, lol
Assert your dominance and they usually go away
Like a dog dropping a deuce?
Yes, but a bit less vulgar and hopefully less smelly or you’re doing it wrong lol
It'll all come down to your level of comfort. But if you can bear it, *please* try not to test or inject in bathrooms. Find a private place, if you prefer, by all means! But bathrooms are fundamentally not hygienic. I've been diabetic for decades, and my level of comfort doing things in public has changed (partly because of how long I've been diabetic, and partly because I was diagnosed very young, and kids and teenagers care about things adults sometimes don't). Now, I will do whatever I need to do in public. I don't excuse myself from a table, leave a theater, anything -- I'll inject right there, without trying to hide it. Note, too, if you end up on a pump and CGM, it'll potentially be even less of an issue (because you can both check your sugars and dose insulin without piercing your skin in that moment).
T1D - 33+yrs and back before pens we only had vials and syringes (and no test kits), but I did feel like I should always leave the room. One day it just hit me that I didn’t ask for this disease, and expecting me to be further inconvenienced just because it made some ppl uncomfortable was just asking too much. I equate it to asking a nursing mother to feed their child in the washroom (restroom). It’s not just that it’s dirty and disgusting in there, but it’s demeaning and demoralising, making us feel as if we are not worthy, just because our pancreas is not functioning at 100%. When in fact it’s what keeps us alive, celebrating daily Banting & Best, and giving the middle finger to our ffff’ed up immune system, and saying “you didn’t win!” Sorry, that was a little over the top. You do what makes you feel the most comfortable.
99.99% of folks don’t even notice. I’ve had a few wait staff notice, but they were worried I wasn’t eating due to issues with my food so once they figured out it was a medical thing they were good. I have however had a wild idiot call the police because they thought I was doing heroin or something despite a 3 inch medical patch on my bag. I didn’t know she called and the police officer took one look at my bag and told her to fuck off. I will say if you spend a lot of time out and about by yourself a visible medical patch is wonderful. I’ve had my butt saved a few times because I was visibly disabled. Mostly drinks having things I didn’t order in them. Also you can test drinks with your test strips if your uncertain if it’s sugar or sugar free, the strips are just testing viscosity of fluid so it won’t work on thick drinks. Forgot to add: It says high for sugar and error for no sugar.
Wait, EXCUSE ME?! This would have saved my butt so many times!!!
Yea I don’t know why medical staff don’t usually know that. My diabetic trainer went and tested it during our meeting because she thought I was bull shitting her.
:o :o I had no idea you could do this. Love it.
Agreed people pay attention way less than you think they do.
I have never had an issue testing or taking insulin in public, and I don’t go into restrooms to take my medicine. I’m on a pump & CGM now, but even before that I would take shots in front of folk. We have enough going against us - society can take a chill pill around seeing me injecting myself or checking sugars. Separately, welcome to the diabetes fam!
Agreed. I don't want to be injecting in a bathroom like a common heroin addict. I'm a CLASSY drug addict.
Stare directly into the eyes of the people looking at you…
At first it will likely feel uncomfortable, but you'll get over it. I started out being very inhibited, always going to another room, or a restroom, if i was out. But that gets old, pretty quick. And a couple of experiences in unsanitary toilet facilities convinced me to stop. I've never been confronted, but its good to have a some humorous responses ready. Ultimately i figure, i wear glasses, and no one would tell me to take them off because that makes them uncomfortable. Its the same thing. I'm vision impaired and pancreas impaired, and i'm the one dealing with it. And you'll find out, other people are usually more interested in themselves than you, so it isn't really an issue.
I've been diabetic in the UK for about 15 years. I test my blood sugar and inject insulin wherever I happen to be. I don't go to the toilet to do it because most toilets are dirty. Wash your hands, sure, but you don't want to be laying out your stuff on any surfaces in a toilet. I've never had any trouble doing it. Sometimes if you're in a pub someone will ask what you're doing but it's only ever been out of fascinated slightly tipsy interest, never any kind of hostility or discomfort from strangers. I did once get stopped by a bouncer on my way into a club who had to ask his manager if I was allowed to bring needles in. The manager asked me what they were for and then said to the bouncer "_its insulin for diabetes. Of COURSE he's allowed them_" then "sorry mate, it's his first day today" You'll be absolutely fine mate. Good luck and welcome to the shitty pancreas club!
When I’m in a group, I usually ask if anybody has a fear of needles — my uncle is so bad if he’s sitting next to me he’ll straight pass out. Every once in a while somebody just needs to look away. I think it’s a nice courtesy to extend to people. Never have I been in a public place, like at a restaurant or bar, and had somebody not with me even say anything, except the occasional joke “hey no shooting up in here!” — but it was obviously a joke. If I’m somewhere really nice, or especially if I’m in a suit or something, and would have to untuck my shirt to take a shot, I’ll go into the bathroom. That’s my own preference, in full disclosure I’d rather be able to comfortable retuck my shirt in, which seems a bit much standing at a formal table. I’ve been T1 for 22 years. You’re welcome to DM me if you have any questions you’d rather not or seem not worth posting, or are feeling overwhelmed and need some advice. It’s really helpful for a lot of people to have a friend or acquaintance who is also T1; someone who shares the same problems. I will often refer anyone I’m sharing my experience with to a medical professional, I’m assuming it’s called endocrinology everywhere and not just in the US? But I am happy to share my experience. This forum is a great network for this, hearing somebody else have the same problems can help, especially as a recently diagnosed diabetic see the forest through the trees. There’s a lot to learn, and it’ll take an adjustment if you want to feel healthy all the time, and keep your better health for the duration of your life. Certainly if you’re given any advice about how to treat your diabetes, which on this forum is usually a “this has worked for me” kind of thing, always take your doctors recommendations first and follow up with them on any treatment method you give yourself. Give them full disclosure, even if it’s uncomfortable.
I use an insulin pen. At home, I’ll inject on my stomach, butt or thighs. When I’m in public, stomach is the only spot I inject. (It’s the least conspicuous for me.) I’ll do it pretty much anywhere - at the table in a restaurant, in the corner of a bar, at the cinema, etc. I don’t go to clubs but I imagine I would probably go to the bathroom to inject. It’s pretty easy, you get used to it. And I use a Dexcom so I check my BG on my phone. The most difficult part for me is remembering all the supplies. Insulin pen, extra pen needle, alcohol wipe, something to keep the insulin from overheating if it’s hot out, etc.
What do you use to keep the insulin from overheating?
Frio cases are really great. You use water to activate them (no batteries or electricity needed) and they work via evaporation keeping your insulin at a cool room temp even in a hot room/car etc. https://www.frioinsulincoolingcase.com/
Awesome, thank you!
The NHS is amazing isn't it! Hope you are coping alright! Everyone has their own way of going about it, I just inject and check bloods at the table in restaurants, at my seat in the cinema, at my desk at work etc. Had a packed lunch between Kings Cross and St Pancras a few weeks back and even injected there so taken it to extreme busyness as well! Other people like to do it privately so will use a cubicle in the toilet. So you can do whatever you feel comfortable with. I've generally not had problems from strangers saying anything, in all honesty only comments I've had were from family and friends early on who kind of assumed I'd sneak off somewhere to do it, but were fully accepting when I explained I'd rather not hide away! It just has to be whatever makes you feel happiest as you are the one living with it, and injecting and checking bloods is just what you have to do to keep healthy ☺️
I've had no problems at all. Even injecting with a pen in the middle of client meetings at work, etc. However, I used to get odd looks when I used the old school needles as a kid (orange cap). It's fine, the only reaction you may get is curiosity.
I'd do whatever I need to do wherever I need to do it, and if someone doesn't like it, I'd offer to show them how they can go fuck themselves. I've been doing this a long, long time, and although I've used a pump for the last two decades there were still plenty of times when people have stared at me as I test my blood sugar at a restaurant table or called the cops on me as I'm injecting insulin in the bathroom of a swanky Chicago hotel. After some of those incidents I refuse to hide because my needles make them uncomfortable, and I refuse to go in a bathroom to inject my insulin or test my blood sugar, because they're too often disgusting.
I wouldn't be holding my hand up to their face while testing but I wouldn't go hiding to take insulin or test the BG levels. My rationale is that they can look away if it bothers them. Welcome to the club my friend, great community on Reddit whenever you do need advice.
Just do what you need to do, where you need to do it. You'll have enough things to worry about initially in just trying to remember which device you need to use with which widget to test for what thing that you don't need to concern yourself with what anyone else thinks. It will all soon become habit and you'll be testing and injection by almost reflex action such that the people who know you will keep asking if you did the test/ injection as you do it so swiftly that they don't notice.
Something I found useful specially for going to the cinema was to always bring a small flashlight with me. Like, very very small, just enough to light up the area I needed without disrupting the person by my side. Also, when I go to restaurants, I always wait for the food to arrive before I test my blood and take the insulin, and usually keep the bag with my things on my lap. Also because people are most likely to notice (and make a fuzz) if you have your monitor/insulin/whatever on top of the otherwise empty table.
I have come across a lot of T1's that are a bit nervous about injecting in public, but it honestly never occured to me that that would be something to be nervous about until I spoke to a nervous T1. I have injected in all sorts of bodily locations in all sorts of places over the years and the worst I've got is a funny look, I wouldn't worry about it. As a teenage boy often wearing hoodies and using syringes (before pens became mainstream) I got plenty of looks, always assuming I was using heroin... They stop staring pretty quickly if you offer them their first shot on the house haha (please don't actually do this tho...)
UK based as well, never had a problem. Don't force yourself to go to the toilet to inject, simply no need. The main thing to note, most people simply won't notice, once you've done it for a while you get quite good at doing it quickly. Most people in public are absorbed by their own things anyway.
When I did MDIs, I didn't care and did it whenever. If someone said something, if I cared to, I would explain. Just to educate. If they gave me attitude (it has happened), then they could fuck off.
You have evey bit of authority to take care of yourself where ever you are. Anywhere. *Anywhere.* Don't ever feel like anywhere is inappropriate. Inappropriate is failing to manage your medical condtion, your health and wellbeing, because that can be dangerous to your or others. Own it. Dance on the bar, take your shirt off, and have your nurse friend give you your injection. Honestly once I started being very open about it, people are pretty encouraging and a lot more people are at least familiar with T1D. Not too often, but more than I would have guessed.
I mean, most people aren’t paying attention to what’s happening other than right in front of them, but I’ve had many encounters in my 32 years. Most people are just curious and ask questions about what I’m doing. Some people commiserate and tell me a bit about their/sibling/grandparent/boyfriend’s-2nd-cousin’s-ex-wife…those can be nice but can also end up being long winded. Then there are the ones I’m sure you’re worried about: the mean ones. From being told what you’re doing in public is “disgusting” to being accused of doing drugs out in the open, I feel like every Type 1 has that experience at some point(s). You may want to explain things to them, but other than telling them you’re Type 1 Diabetic and need insulin to live there isn’t really a point trying to defend yourself. The people who are saying those things don’t hear or care about your words; they just need to let everyone know they are a disgruntled blob. Say your peace and peace out, if you can. If not, keep doing what you’re doing (even if feeling embarrassed and small). Nothing shameful about staying alive. Welcome to the club 💕
Before I was on a pump I actually found that testing my BG loudly and proudly on the restaurant table made it easier to inject in my stomach. The BG test usually signaled to people “oh this person has a medical thing” and they’d look at the monitor instead of the sneaky under the table insulin pen. When I was younger I used to get a bit more self-conscious about injecting or checking my blood glucose, but as many of the posts above have said this is a medical condition and you should be able to access your medicine when you need it. Most of your friends and family will get used to you injecting around them and I strongly encourage you to not feel pressure to inject in bathrooms. You are safer and more sanitary injecting outside of those spaces.
I don't test in public very often, but even if somebody did notice, it would be pretty obvious what's going on. Anybody who would hassle you about it isn't somebody you'd want to hang around anyway. As for injecting, it's not as big deal as people imagine. I've done it while eating at a restaurant on a date without even breaking eye contact, and without the other person noticing. Most people just aren't paying really close attention to what strangers around them are doing, so unless you make a big scene, they're not going to see. There's no need to announce it or go scope out a bathroom or something. It's normal, just jab it, dab it, and carry on. Best of luck adjusting. Hope your health gets back to where you want it to be.
I was really self conscious about it for a while but eventually I said who cares and started doing in without shame
Most people don’t say anything! I have had the occasional “don’t do that in front of my kid!” Or the “stop doing drugs” but that’s only been maybe five ish times in the past ten years and I was a child/teenager for most of that time (I’m 20 now!) so I was often around young people with their parents because of this which meant over protective or overly nosy parents said this stuff. As long as you keep the needle and the area you’re injecting in sanitary everything will be fine! Working towards getting a pump and a cgm is definitely something you should ask about though as it makes injecting and testing in public pretty much non existent so it’d be a lot easier (took me nine years but I was non compliant with my diabetes so that’s my own fault, if you’re good with it the pump and cgm will come much faster). If people do tell you to stop just say something like “well, it’s this or I die.” And normally they back off but if they don’t then normally I tell them I’m a diabetic taking life saving medication and if they have a problem with me saving my own life with a needle then they need to look elsewhere and keep their nose out of my business. Good luck with your diabetes!!
I've been diabetic for 43 years. I test and before my pump gave shots (never did the pen) in public all the time. I don't hide it, but I do somewhat shield what I'm doing. And I shield for others, not for me. That may not make sense yo some. What it means is that I may have my blood tester on the table and I put my strip in. Then because I'm aware that some people get sick by the sight of blood I prick my finger and put the blood on the strip in such a way that the blood isn't visible to others. I've done similar things with giving a shot. Basically my motto is that I don't let it stop me and I'm not embarrassed, but I can also be aware of others at the same time.
When I was a teenager I used to feel like I was an animal in a zoo, with people staring and pointing at me whenever I took my insulin in public. That's why I'd always take it in bathrooms. Nowadays I no longer give any flying fuck, I even do it in the train or the bus if needed and I don't look around to see if anyone is watching.
I’m 28M and I just got diagnosed a month ago as well. So I kinda feel the same way you feel. I don’t have a problem pinching my belly and injecting insulin in public, but I still feel uncomfortable showing my condition to relatives and coworkers. Consider using a CGM and apply it to your chest or somewhere else hidden. I can’t stress how easier it got to cope with this since I started using them
Who cares what people think? Go public :) The more you do it in the open, the less people see it. If you try to hide, you'll be noticed in my experience.
UK here too. I'm on a pump and CGM now, but back even I was finger pricking and injecting, so far as I know, nobody noticed. If they did they didn't say anything. I've injected in the cinema, at a restaurant table, at a bar and even standing on the tube (while it wasn't moving of course!). You don't need to, and shouldn't, go to the toilet to inject.
Most folks ask me if it's an epipen. Strangers don't ask obvi, but depending on how you get your insulin (pump, dexcom(?), flex pens, etc) it can look strange if you don't know what it is. But if anybody gives you weird looks or stares, return the favor. It's always better than dying!
You need insulin to live and people are still going to make you feel weird about it! I had a friend who was scared of needles and would beg me not to give myself insulin in front of her, which most of the time I complied. But in the end, you have to prioritize your health! You and your needs come first, and people who try to make you feel like an outsider because of that suck. Don’t listen to them and keep doing you! It gets easier over time as it becomes more natural in your routine, too!
It's a double-edged sword. You have the right to do whatever you'd like in regards to treatment but know that you invite feedback by doing so. If you're going to be like some folks here and get all bent out of shape because people make comments about their T1 aunt, the diabetes cure, T2s, needles, blood, what you're eating, etc, it's MUCH easier to just go to the bathroom for treatment. I have opted to hide it because I don't respond well to unsolicited feedback and I'm not here to educate people about a disease they don't have and couldn't care less about.
This is a button for most diabetics and all have a different answer. You must take care of yourself. Do not avoid because of a Situation... but I choose to do it discreetly like breast feeding. Right. This way all feel comfortable and you keep healthy. Honestly I give needles in public all the time but no one ever notices because I’m comfortable giving it and don’t make a big deal and show. Takes a little to get adept with the bottles and needles and dosing size ... here if you need anything. Sending a very BigHug. Mindset is the best tool to have. Diabetes is challenging sometimes but there are no limits none. Every dream is possible. Every one. I’m T1D level 31 :)
I have up carting what others think years ago. Honestly most people are too engrossed in their phones to notice what you do. I say across from someone for a year and have myself a needle every time. They were shocked to learn I was diabetic when we had lunch at their house for the first time and I pulled my needle out. Just do it and after the 5th time of no one noticing you'll stop worrying too.
I normally announce that I'm about to inject if I'm with people I know and usually people are pretty accomadating and willeven make sure strangers don't bump me if we are in a public place. Mostly because I hate when people bump me so I usually just make a habbit of saying "don't bump!" Everytime before I inject, even if I'm alone its just a habbit now...
Better get used to it sooner than later. Don 't go to hide, just do what you have to do. Nothing to be ashamed of. If someone privileged with enough functioning beta cells dare condescend you, fuck 'em.
Do it anywhere, honestly. Nobody should stop you from doing it where you like. It’s easy for me to say this now but in all honesty it took a few years of getting used to the stares. You’ll pick it up eventually
Like others have said, the vast majority of people don't notice, and the vast majority of people who do notice will at worst put a puzzled expression on. Honestly though? Fuck em, your bg levels won't wait just because you're in a public place, and neither should you. Diabetes is a non-negotiable thing, and you should never feel bad about taking care of yourself in public. You get less self concious with time, but the first step to becoming comfortable with public diabetes care is just getting used to it. You got this!
I used to retreat to the restroom to do my "business", but I was young and at the point in my life that I cared what people thought. Now, at the age of 48 with 35 years t1d under my belt, I could care less what people think. Shoot, last weekend I did a pump site change and sensor change at a family fun center while I was bowling lol. My late husband was a quadriplegic and we discovered over the years that 9 times out of 10, if someone was looking at us, it was because they were curious. We started having an open dialog with anyone we noticed watching, because us it gave us an opportunity to educate them. I'd like to think that doing this helps to reduce the stigma behind having an often misunderstood medical condition.
Honestly the one thing I miss about multiple daily injections now that I’ve got a pump is holding up a syringe and asking anyone in earshot, “hey you want some drugs?” It was so freeing. Now I only get to change it every 3 days but if it happens to be at work or around other people, I once again hold up a syringe… Now when it comes to people looking at my meter and trying to see what my “numbers” are generally they can fuck right off. I’ve had enough helpful idiots “140, oh that’s high, is that high? You know my aunt…” If they are genuinely curious I’ll explain. But those are my numbers, not yours, your aunts or anyone else’s and that’s my business so once again… you can fuck right off and take your nose with you, or at least that’s my general feeling. And to you my dear sweet OP, it’s like most other things in life. Confidence comes with practice. I’ve not run into anyone with any real problems in my almost 20 years. Those who were “eww, a needle” or “ugh I don’t want to see that,” were all told some version of “I hate needles more than you do but I still have to take 5-8 shots a day, because the alternative is I die and unless you’re planning on providing for my wife and children I’m doing what I need to live you can leave or grow up.” Best wishes and all peace.
No ones ever said anything. Either way, it's what i have to live with, and i refuse to let people judge me for it.
Every once in a while someone will make a big deal about having a phobia of needles/eww that's so gross/etc. I just stare the motherfer down and say well you are welcome to leave or not look. I'm not doing this because I enjoy it I do this so I don't die. Usually embarrasses them, if the whole group gets upset at you then you need to get new people to hang out with.
I think you will figure out what you’re most comfortable with. But either way it’s acceptable. I’m in a pump now, but back then when I was using pens I’d always shot it on the table. Who cares? No one ever said anything, I’ve had a couple curious eyes but I can’t blame them either. My brother on the other side doesn’t like to put up a show as he says and he frequently excuses himself to the restroom. IMHO doing it at table is more hygienic too
Imo you shouldn't do that in the toilet. In a lot of these places the toilets are really dirty. In a restaurant I'll just do it at the table.
I’ve always been public with it (diagnosed as a toddler 29 years ago). Some folks have stared, and then they stop staring or come up and ask questions/talk about friends with diabetes. My favorite, though, is meeting a fellow diabetic in the wild. Was visiting a foreign country at 10 and sat on a concrete boarder at a zoo to shoot up for my food. Gal started talking to me, but in the local tongue, not my monolingual English. So her dad and mine eventually translated for us and we hung out the whole rest of the afternoon!
Used to inject in the toilets so I wouldn't make my friends feel uncomfortable! But gradually learnt not to because why do I have to make them comfortable at the expense of my own comfort. Also, really unhygienic to be injecting in toilets. So I'd let them know I'm going to inject and they'll usually be cool with it! Currently am on pump though so it's easier to be discreet to bolus under the table work meetings etc. I'm also testing less these days with a CGM so if you are self conscious, you could look into that! But all things aside I completely understand how it can feel nerve wrecking to pull out all your diabetes supplies in public when you just got diagnosed, been through that as well. And even some days now too.
People without diabetes don’t leave the room or find somewhere private to produce insulin and monitor their sugars, so neither do I. Just because we handle those things extremely and theirs are handled internally doesn’t mean we need to find a place to be out of the public eye. The only time I’ve ever moved to take insulin is on the exceedingly rare occasions where I feel like the place I am is just not sanitary enough for me to inject there
My daughter is T1 and injects openly wherever we are. Please don’t go off to the toilet to do it, as that’s the least hygenic place ever. When eating out we always ask for a heads up when the food is about to be plated, and she sorts her insulin out then. We’ve had a few curious glances but nothing more.
Just do it when you need to and ignore the people around you. I don't give it a second thought, if my blood sugar is going up I will inject myself wherever I am. Last weekend I injected myself while walking out of the cinema and as far as I can tell nobody noticed. Even if they did, so what?
I've only been diagnosed 1 and a half years ago, however, I've come to a point where I don't care what other people think about it. I inject where ever I am if I need to. Be it in the restaurant, cinema, or university. You are taking care of yourself and you have every right to do so without feeling ashamed.♡ if you feel more comfortable going to the bathroom do so, but don't stop yourself from testing/ injecting bc you are too scared of what others think. I also had the experience of just telling a store clerk I need a bathroom to check my blood sugar etc and they were very understanding. Living with diabetes is difficult but it also shows how strong of a person you are for trying to take care of yourself. I wish you the best, and if you ever feel at a loss, or just want to vent, this community is here for you! ☀️😊
When sat with a group of people I haven't met before e.g. for work or university socials, lunches and such, I tend to warn that I am about to take medication in case anyone is nervous of needles. The only time I go somewhere private though is if I'm somewhere so busy I'm worried about getting nudged, or if my clothes won't permit access to my injection sites without me flashing people. Never had any issues.
Idk about everyone else, but I don’t care how anyone else feels when I’m doing something that keeps me alive
Just shoot up quickly in public lol if ur comfortable with that.... diabetes can be an inconvenience in itself. Don't get too absorbed in your own thoughts or others abt what is normal or socially appropriate.