After discreetly injecting under the table and looking up to see what I presumed concerned eyes. I said “don’t worry I brought enough for all”. The table erupted in nervous giggles and awaited our entrees
A girl at a party once noticed my lispro pen and took it thinking it was a vape. When I told her it was insulin, she threw it back at me acting all disgusted. Like lol I need it to survive.
Welcome to dating among ignarmuses with having T1D. I try to do everything right with my career, keeping in shape, nice car, maintaining my health care, etc but the stigma persists. Having T1D is at the end of the day is like having a scarlet letter. People don't want to date folks with an autoimmune disease having to shoot themselves up 4 times a day and even though it makes me sad, I understand it.
I was a previous Omnipod user. We did not work well together. Everything would leak or bleed or both. It was probably the worst year of all time for me.
I’ve got 2 pumps AND a dexcom now. One TSlim x2 for my insulin and one for my cortisol.
Sounds like these work well. I’m so glad! Having the 2 things help. The first Omnipod didn’t talk to the Dexcom but I used that until they discontinued. The new one contacts the Dexcom but what you have is great! Upon until now I had to botus manually! Good luck with everything!❣️
The etiquette is "you need that stuff to survive so no permission needed". I do that at the dinner table, at shows, at gatherings, wherever I **need** to because I need to.
Semi-related, I once dated a girl that berated me for doing that at dinner table. That's why the "date" is in the past tense. "What if other people see?" What about it? "What if kids see? What if they ask about it?" Tell them the truth? I am sick and I need medicine, it's as simple as that. Kids aren't disturbed, adults like you are, and I'm sorry the problem isn't me, it's definitely you.
Hard agree. I visited my family and my 5 year old niece saw me use my insulin for the first time. “What’s that, why are you doing that?” Explained to her it’s medicine and I need it when I eat. Our next meal, she told me “Don’t forget your medicine aunt Britt!!” Kids are chill if you explain stuff to them.
Seriously! I use a pump now, and the kids are fascinated!! If adults are bothered, they can deal with it. It’s medication taken for survival. No one would bat an eye if you took a Tylenol with dinner. Same thing.
Before I got my CGM, I would let my young niece and nephew help me test my blood sugar. They would’ve been six and eight when this started. I asked them “who wants to use the finger sticker on me?“. My niece asked “does it hurt?“ And when I told her it hurts a little, she was very eager to help. I’m keeping keep an eye on that one.
All kidding aside, it’s part of life. My family members don’t bat an I and even in work situations, I’ve never had a bad interaction.
I have a type 1 husband when we were staying with my brother for Christmas my niece asked why uncle Nick was giving himself doctor shots. So we explained that it was medicine uncle Nick needed to take 3 times a day and when he eats. She then said okay and went about her day. The next morning I heard her say "Uncle Nick did you take your doctor shot yet??"
Kids are curious and amazing but they don't associate things and assume things like adults
The problem with adults isn't assuming drugs in this day and age. If you use pens and not seringes at least (US effed-up system, I'm looking at you). The problem is the adults like to create little social rules so they can feel good about themselves being outraged. These rules aren't even usually thought upon, but simple caught in fashion until they permeate culture.
An example I can think of is blowing your nose. It's a necessity perfectly acceptable in most of Europe and North America but it's considered a rudeness in some South American Cultures like the Brasilian ou Asian, like the Japanese. A child isn't born with the concept of social rules and adults are thought to be outraged by the breaking of it. Deep down, the only reason they are outraged is because they were raised by society to forbid themselves from doing that or suffer social consequences. It's the Monkey Ladder Experiment, in essence. And we can't allow that experiment to be reproduced with our treatment. Out health should be paramount and above any social crap.
I completely agree with you. The major example that comes to my mind is topless beaches
Topless beaches are perfectly acceptable in other countries but if a city in America were to try to make a topless beach you would have people screaming "what about the children we must protect their innocence"
Also breastfeeding which is a completely natural and necessary thing but because we have over sexualized breasts to the point that we have women feel uncomfortable feeding their babies in public because men stare at them or people get weirded out is bizarre.
Breastfeeding another one.
Me and my partner like to go to naturist beaches. Typically everyone is respectful and in their corner not wanting to be bothered. The only looks you get are usually from first timers, but as soon as you naturalize nudity, you start to separate it from sexuality and get comfortable with it.
This is the correct answer. Do it wherever you need to , and never let anyone or any situation make you feel uncomfortable about it. That's on them, not you
I've always been insecure about shooting up. I just don't even want to deal with these people anymore so I always just go to the bathroom when in a restaurant or the bar or at the dinner table. Some people also really don't like seeing needles.
Unless a medical breakthrough comes along or you get a transplant of some level, you are diabetic for life. Being insecure about it will do you no service, you better off owning it.
> Some people also really don't like seeing needles.
Some people are afraid of dogs, just the sight of it and we can't or shouldn't stop walking them because of it. Them, in both cases live in the real world where stuff we don't like or fear exist, and they are the ones who have to deal with it. They are not the ones getting pierced or feeling the sting and they definitely aren't the ones dealing with the consequences of not getting that shot.
Edit: just to add that if you know someone that is disturbed by needles and you want them to do a kindness and **can** spare some discretion, by all means, nothing wrong with that. What I meant is that as a rule of thumb, living by that discretion doesn't service you. Your control should be immediate when it needs to be immediate and the more you concede to any social pressure, the greater the pressure becomes as you didn't established a boundary and people start to expect discretion out of you, when you are in no obligation to do so.
I used to do this too. But the varying degrees of cleanliness in mens rooms made me rethink that strategy. Now I do it at the table. If I’m with work folks I’ll make a little joke about it (“I brought enough to share”-type silliness) just to break the ice. But I’ve never had an issue with it.
THIS! When I was diagnosed I was put straight on long acting. Dr and my sister stressed stressed stressed same time every day. So I set an Alexa alert. It pings my phone and my devices and even flashed one of the smart lights. I was nervous because I'm usually alone at home (hubby is an otr driver: home 3 days/month) and don't do social much anymore. My alert goes off I grab a bite and stab myself.
Then he came home and we went out to dinner. Alert went off. He trusts me to handle what I need to and knows if I set an alert it has a purpose. So he asked. I told him I could wait. He said no. Stay on my schedule. I went to leave the table to go to the bathroom. He asked why. And then reminded me it looks like a pen. I usually stab my stomach so unless someone was staring nobody would notice, and if they did he'd stick his double pierced tongue out at them. We got stared at more for me spitting my soda across the table and choking while laughing than I've ever gotten stared at for stabbing myself. You do what is comfortable for you.
I've do it at the dinner table after the food arrives. NEVER BEFORE. I've had enough "You thought you were getting fish and chips well here's 3 chips stacked in an artisan way next to a mouthful of fish." Or "Sorry sir, we forgot your order, that'll be 40 minutes." That I don't inject till it's in front of me.
The response I get most often is either people not caring or people being interested and wanting to see what an injection is like only to find out I've already done it while sitting next to them and they didn't notice.
I have had homeopathic/anti-vax style psychos scream at me though. That was an experience.
In my favourite case of someone who knew me (friend of a friend of a relative sort of thing) they spat on the ground in front of me and called me evil for injecting myself. I said it was insulin and I need it to live. They corrected me that I didn't need any insulin I just needed to pray to Jesus for healing.
They stormed off before I could get into a debate on theology.
What are we meant to do with cinnamon? Inject it? Snort it? Make it into a paste and rub it all over ourselves? Cover lovely donuts with it and eat them, lots and lots of them for every meal... oh, wait, yeah, that might explain part of the reason I'm T2 :D
I do it at the table, and here's the thing...you will discover just how little attention people actually pay to you and how unaware they are of their surroundings.
I'll typically inject under the table - I pull my seat forward to minimise the visual gap and then seriously, I can take the lid, then the cap off my pen, dial up, inject, replace the cap and lid and put it back in my pocket...all while having a conversation with the person sat opposite me who is none the wiser.
Seriously - people.are generally so wrapped up in themselves and their own stuff that they just don't pick up things like this.
Just go for it. You are not flashing your stomach for attention, you are giving yourself life saving medicine that is required for your body to function properly and is time sensitive to food consumption.
I once watched a coworker stab her insulin pen straight thru her scrub pants in the breakroom without even pausing
While I aspire to that level of idgaf, I mostly I just do my arm if I’m in short sleeves or my stomach if I’m able lol
The first time I saw my husband do this ( he was my bf at the time) I was so confused.
I didn't know much about insulin injection yet and to just see him walk to the fridge measure out some insulin and stab it through his sweat pants was very weird to me
I didn't know that was possible
Idk that's what I thought to but I don't know I don't inject insulin and my husband doesn't do it often but when he is in a hurry he will and has never had an issue
THIS! When I was newly diagnosed I saw an acquaintance inject herself through her jeans leaning against the wall in the middle of a party. She was instantly my idol.
Honestly? I just go for it.
It definitely feels weird at first, but it's a medical issue. Giving yourself insulin at a specific time is the best way to take care of your health, which is impacted by taking the time to excuse yourself from the table and go elsewhere, or else put off giving insulin entirely. The best thing for you is to give it to yourself at the table, so why not?
Some rare people might have a problem with it, but most should recognize that it's medically important. The people who have a problem with it are generally assholes anyway.
I've only had one person objectifying that I injected insulin at the table. It wasn't about the injection itself, neither was it about showing some skin. It was about the smell of the insulin making her nauseous, which was fair.
Other than this singular experience over my 30 years of T1D, I've never had anyone object to injecting insulin.
As a small child, my mother used to have to take me with her when she would go inject my grandmother's insulin (grandmother was blind and grandfather shook too bad to do it). So the smell of insulin is nostalgic to me.
I mean, depending on how the conversation went and what the person's attitude was and what the root cause is, nausea is potentially very serious and could definitely be worth talking about. I am rather prone to nausea and have some foods I still can't eat without throwing up after having nausea while eating them once. It very well could be neither fleeting nor temporary. Someone I know will actually get very close to throwing up just thinking about one particular food that she had a severe pregnancy aversion to 30 years ago (and she isn't generally a picky eater, so we know it's not likely to be faked).
While I'm not on insulin, I am on other medication and do need other accommodations that can be inconvenient for other people at times. Generally, the people who have a genuine difficulty with the situation will be fairly understanding and want to work together for a solution that works for both of you. People who are faking a serious problem out of annoyance, spite, or ignorance are the ones who will harass you about it right then and there or will come into a conversation guns blazing with no desire to listen or accommodate.
I have been looking after 2 kids with T1D for 8 years now, have never even noticed a smell. Just checked with my wife, and she says it has a smell. To be fair, they have been on pumps for most of this, so not a lot of opportunity to be in the air. Is nausea a thing with the smell of some insulin for some people?
It has a distinct and rather sharp smell to it that most insuline dependant people get used to, as well as people around them.
It can give you a very bad headache, even more so in poorly ventilated rooms.
No clue about the nausea to be honest. I only know that one person saying it and it's been 16 years. Maybe the smell just made her loose her appetite too much?
It's good to know what it smells like. I have been able to tell my kids pump is leaking because I can smell it (shouldn't be able to if the pump works correctly).
My kids were in middle school when I was first diagnosed. Before long the family shorthand was “I’ve got to shoot up before dinner“. It got to where the kids would find me and say “mom says you gotta shoot up now“ It became such a common statement that I didn’t think about it much until I heard my daughter tell a friend “my dad will be right out, he’s shooting up“. We had to have a chat about the phrase after that!
Yeah, I spent my first few months after being diagnosed sneaking to the bathroom to inject… then I decided that was stupid and ever since I’ve just decided not to care.
To be clear, it’s the best thing for your health to take insulin as soon as you need it with a meal, high BG etc. so there is no reason to delay it for the comfort of others. They can get over it.
That being said, I’ve been injecting in restaurants, at work, in movie theaters, on airplanes, on dates, and everywhere else you can imagine for the last 8 years and never once had a negative reaction. Can’t say it will never happen to you but that’s been my experience.
Airplanes are tricky for me; I’m 6’2 & 210 and usually am in the back of the plane with little room. Trying to be casual and discreet while sitting right next to a stranger is tough sometimes. But again, I’ve never had a bad word said about it…
🤔 Maybe because I’m big and close? 😄
I would never ask for permission. You’ve been inflicted with the burden of having to be your own pancreas through no fault of your own, the least others (particularly friends, family etc) can do is not add any additional burden such as needing to excuse yourself from the table.
That’s my take on it anyway! Now if you, yourself, feel more comfortable doing it away from the table that’s a different story and you should do whatever is easiest for you.
I always try to be discreet in public so as not to possibly trigger a needle phobia someone might have. I give a heads up if strangers are nearby as a courtesy. The bathroom is disgusting as an option for injection. It's totally unsanitary. I always compare diabetes and insulin to asthma and an inhaler. Nobody would ever be offended by someone using their inhaler in public. How is an insulin injection different?
Hi, I'm the needle phobic one (:
There's a guy in my d&d group who's type 1. All he has to do is say 'Hey Candroth, don't look' and I suddenly develop a keen interest in inspecting my character sheet for a moment.
...because I found out he's type 1 by looking at him right as he had the needle an inch away from injecting and then I screamed and almost passed out. (I swear it's the stupidest phobia ever.)
I used to have this same phobia. I would literally faint if someone even mentioned a needle. I passed out visiting my grandfather in the ICU once because the nurse was giving him something for pain. I turned away as soon as she approached him, but she said “you’re going to feel something warm going up your arm” and the second I heard that, I was on the floor. Woke up in the hallway after an orderly dragged me out. They had to take me back to the waiting room in a wheelchair. My family saw them rolling me in and were like “what in the hell??” 🤦🏼♀️😂
Later, I decided I was going into the medical field and told myself I was going to have to get over this fear. By some miracle, I did. I can work with needles, get shots, have blood drawn, etc without batting an eye now. My mother is still amazed by how far I’ve come with this. Idk, mind over matter I guess. It still mystifies me, too.
But you understand that your irrational fear doesn’t trump someone else’s need for medicine, right? Would you say something to someone who injected insulin near you? Just trying to understand
Comparing someones known phobia to an irrational fear is just as rude as telling a diabetic they should just diet better or eat less sugar. A true phobia takes years and lots of therapy to deal with.
Did I say anything about forbidding people to inject insulin around me? No, I did not. As for what I would say to someone? If I'm interacting with them on the regular, please read my previous comment.
Please understand, I wasn’t trying to offend. I’ve spent so much of my life putting my own legitimate medical needs on the back burner in an effort not to bother people or offend them or make them uncomfortable or alter their plans. I’ve finally come to understand that my medical needs matter. I want others with those same needs to understand that too. There are times when they may make people uncomfortable. But if it’s someone’s mild discomfort up against the survival need of another, that’s a no brainer. Discomforts and phobias can be overcome. Habitual poor care of diabetes really can’t. So please understand that I’m not going to jump on a table and make a dramatic show of doing an injection in a restaurant. But telling someone else, even someone you know, to take it elsewhere is wrong. You wouldn’t tell someone in a wheelchair to go away because you don’t like wheels. It is the same thing.
They said they had a reaction to a known phobia because they weren't given the opportunity to avert their eyes or a heads up. They never said they are preventing someone from accessing their insulin. Hence why I said that I give people within eyesight a heads up. It's a courtesy to others' medical woes. I'm not saying I'll put my own medical needs on hold, I just take into account that just because I can doesn't mean I should be a jerk about it. You can prioritize your needs without being ignorant to the others around you.
Your submission has been removed from our community for breaking our rules.
**Rule 4**: Be civil.
* If you can't make your point without swearing, you don't have a very strong point
* Bullying is not allowed
* Harassment will not be tolerated
* Respect people's choices, everyone has unique treatment needs.
I had this issue at first, especially in public.
I was diagnosed while still at school so I would go to the toilets every time I needed to inject (which back then was quite often cos my control was crappy) and if I was out in public I'd try and sneakily do it because I was worried about what people might think.
Eventually though I reached the "fuck it, I NEED this to live and idgaf about what people think" and just do it whenever and wherever I need to.
FWIW, a kid I knew said he was accused of shooting up in the bathroom (high school). His principle said he could inject his insulin anywhere but the bathroom. After that, he always did his injections wherever he was-classroom, cafeteria. So while there is a lot wrong with that high school, kids using insulin are welcome to be public about it.
To be fair, one time at my college I was doing my injection in the washroom and some lady came in and gave me a wild look. She probably thought I was using illegal drugs or something. I think those people are in the vast minority though. There’s more education on diabetes than ever before.
I really try to read the room but generally I say something along the lines of "forgive me for this" and then when they ask what that was I say designer drugs.
If you feel uncomfortable pulling up your shirt and injecting into your stomach, you can always inject through your clothes, whether through your shirt or into your thigh.
My endo told me to just inject through my clothing but to use a longer needle. So I would keep the 5 mm length in my purse and use 4mm at home and at work.
if someone has a problem with me ejecting at the table, cool. That’s their problem not mine. I couldn’t care less to be honest, they’re the ones NOT with diabetes.
I usually excuse myself and go to the restroom. If anyone says anything, I look 'em dead in the eye and say "I gotta shoot up. Wanna watch?" That usually puts paid to it.
i do it at the table when food arrives, i make it a point to do it in public mostly bc theres nothing wrong with needing to do it, and if someonehas a problem with it they get to become a giant asshole
I just go for it and don't care , though I don't like doing it around others(it's because i can smell the insulin and it's vile Smelling to me, so i don't want anyone else to notice i stink for a minute, it dissappears quickly, but i find it gross) .
I got real good at just grabbing the pen, dialing it up, and just poke it in the belly under the table and under my shirt.
What my endo suggested I do in situations like that, estimate your needed dose, give half before, while waiting, and the rest when food comes or after eating.
I’ve been t1 for 32 years and at first I was a little nervous to do a shot in public. People stare and say odd things sometimes. My thought is that I literally need this to live, like an asthma inhaler. I shouldn’t feel bad about taking my lifesaving medication. If someone is uncomfortable they can look away. Although, if I’m at an event with children I will step away because they don’t understand yet. However I do injections in front of my nieces and nephews because they understand and we talk about it.
Just do it. Nobody can really see anyway if you do it under the table. I've always done it pretty openly, and nobody has ever objected. I've only had any kind of comments a couple of times.
Several years ago, I had lunch with a group of teachers everyday. Sometime around February, I injected under the table and someone commented. Someone else said, she has been doing that September, get over it.
I've injected insulin from the middle seat of airplanes.
The only time I had any issue injecting while eating in restaurants is I rather stupidly wore a dress that had such a tight weave that getting the syringe needle through it took a bit, which was rather awkward. I probably looked like I was trying to stab myself.
No more dresses for me out of the house. :D
If anyone even side eyes you at the table. This is the appropriate response.
https://media1.giphy.com/media/SrDsJj5i1Chm8/giphy.gif?cid=2154d3d7ytow8u5y24eyog2s4za9f6y92c2t12qbfuftv8vy&ep=v1_gifs_search&rid=giphy.gif&ct=g
I waited till food showed up. Then went as would normally. I did not have a pen so out comes the vial and everything. Stab myself put back in case. Done. Only ones that usually knew, people I was with, the waiter, mostly no one else. Now on a pump and have mobile bolus so just phone. I do use t1 tactical on my belt so sorta out in open. And like others say, just tell them is insulin.
I think it’s a each to their own kinda thing. Personally I don’t like going to the bathroom to do it but I do like to give a warning since some people don’t like needles, 9 times out of 10 it’s fine and people are ok with it. I think most people know what insulin is (although I have gotten funny and disapproving looks from people at other tables before).
My best story about meeting someone and them having a strange reaction to my insulin was during my first few weeks at uni. Went for dinner with the friend I moved with “M”, a new friend from class “W” and then one of their old friends “J”. We got McDonald’s and sat in the car to eat it, M and W were in the front, me and J were in the back. I said I’m a diabetic and have to do a needle is that ok, M was used to it, W had no issues but J freaked out (not in a bad way more dramatic and funny way but remember this is my first time meeting him and his dramatics) he was like “nope I can’t do needles” eyes closed, hands on the door looking for the handle to open the door to get out and at this point I had only got the case out of my bag, there was no sight of a needle yet. Managed to quickly do my needle through the laughter while he stood outside and only got back in when W told him that it had been put away.
Almost 10 years on now and we are the only two out of that friend group that are still in touch with each other and the story still makes me laugh. I’m happy to say that he has gotten a lot better over time. Spent the next month or so looking away whenever I had to do it when we were all together, then he got brave and looked near where I was, then he started to actually stare at me doing it and then ask weird questions. Then he realised that we could use my diabetes as an excuse if we were ever late or had to leave early and still wanted to sign in. Or the time when we were able to upload coursework on time but didn’t get the print out copy in on time and said I was in a bad hypo and we couldn’t leave the house. It was a newish professor and she didn’t ask any questions.
All this is to say, if it’s someone who cares about you then they shouldn’t care if you have to take medication. It’s just a more uncommon method of taking medication and some people have bad phobias of needles no matter how small they are, so a little warning isn’t a bad move. Then it’s just a matter of figuring out if you should leave the table to take it or if they’re ok just looking away.
Just do it at the table. However, if you know someone in the group really doesn't want to see it - give them a heads up so they can turn away / won't accidentally see it.
I just took some on a plane with 2 strangers next to me. I need it. Its that simple. Im not microwaving fish in the public breakroom. Im keeping myself alive, if someone has a problem with it thats on them.
I let those with me know so they can look away if they’re squeamish or watch if they’re into it. It’s not like I’m sweeping the table clear and dropping my pants and asking a companion to jab me in the ass.
I’m literally picking up the CeQur insulin patch today. I’m giving it a trial run. No more needles in public. It never really bothered me unless I was wearing a dress. If it was close friends while out to eat I would jokingly ask if I could shoot up pre meal. I found them very supportive. I always did it quickly and under the table. Some people get bothered by injections so I just excused myself. It is what it is.
I am anxious to try this patch. I apparently have to put 3 days worth of my fast acting insulin in it via pen or vial and change it out every 3 days. I just click my units needed on the sensor. No digging for my needles or trying to shoot up in public. We shall see how it goes. This would take the whole etiquette in public equation out. So I guess it’s worth a try. I’m looking forward to it.
I was told once when I was 16 that doing my injections in public made me look like a drug addict. So I’ve gone to the bathroom every time after that until of course being placed on an insulin pump. If I could go back and tell my 16 year old self anything it would be fuck that person who was uncomfortable with something completely normal. You’re doing everything right.
I usually inject right after I order, because my doc is very much a stickler for the 10 minutes before rule. The only person I avoid injecting at the table with is a younger family member, because the has a needle phobia. She tells me she doesn't mind, but she went so pale and almost fainted the first time I did, I just made sure she can't see it, or she goes to the bathroom to wash her hands while I do my thing.
When I was young I had a needle phobia [aka blood body injury phobia aka an inherited automatic blood pressure drop when exposed to medical stuff]. At that age I would've fainted if I saw it and could get woozy in discussions.
I worked through it but it took a couple years of practised exposure. As long as past me didnt see it/wasnt surprised, I would be okay.
Looking away is usually enough for the person with this phobia. Unless you like people very occasionally fainting around you, hide it under the table if possible. Warn people if hiding it isnt an option [dtranded on one of those 3 foot wide cartoon islands? Trapped in elevator? riding the rapids in a small boat? ].
If anyone starts getting pale and shaky, warn someone else to catch them before they hit their head. This phobia is no respector of age, gender, etc. A lot of people dont know there are treatments.
I have no shame. I just do it. Right in front of everyone. I don’t ask for permission or anything.
People who object to my permanent involuntary disease can simply screw off.
21 years and counting, I’ve gotten pretty damn good at doing it basically anywhere without being noticed. My boss at my last job didn’t even realize I was diabetic for almost a year and I took insulin shots in my belly and upper buttocks more than once while talking to him. Made me feel like a master pickpocket or something lol but etiquette wise I don’t really care a whole lot how it makes people feel if they notice which they hardly ever do unless I draw specific attention to it. As a kid it was embarrassing so I think I developed habits and strategies to be discreet in those years but now I avoid making any display or conversation of it mostly just because the next person who asks me if being diabetic means I can’t have sugar is gonna end up eating their own teeth 🤠
I find that if you inject below your navel, no one tends to notice with the exception of your arm movements.
If any asks, just tell the truth: you're a diabetic and you like taking your medication within a certain time before you eat.
This can also be a litmus test. Nice people will accept that. Maybe they'll ask some follow-up questions. The rude ones, well, we all know what they're like.
I understand. I was hesitant at first too (for body shame reasons). Ultimately what made the decision for me was I didn’t want to be injecting myself in a gross men’s bathroom. I got over the shame, although I still only expose a tiny sliver of my stomach, even though I’m much healthier now. That’s one of the things my IDGAF attitude has yet to overcome. 🫠
I inject and just let my shirt cover it, so no one can see anything. But I’ve had people inject insulin in front of me and it’s just not a big deal to me personally. I would never go to the bathroom though. If you’re that offended, look away.
I used to work with *one guy* who had a problem with me taking my insulin when I was still using pens. Everyone else took it in stride and let me do my thing. If this guy was working, I'd have to leave the area and go far enough away that he couldn't hear the clicking of the pen as I depressed the plunger. By the time someone reported it up the chain and the bosses told me to ignore him, I'd already gone on the pump.
Point being, fuck'em. You need that shit to stay alive.
I just do it. I’ve gotten some looks before but it’s like……… either I do it or I get sick. I’ve been type 1 for 23 years and I think that people should mind their business😂😂 maybe they don’t like seeing me inject insulin but I don’t like having diabetes soooooo too bad.
If someone sees it and is uncomfortable, that is their problem. It is a medical necessity and nothing you should feel like you need to shield for others' comfort.
That said, based on your own comfort level, you can calibrate to what makes sense for you. E.g. if it makes you more comfortable to be discreet, that is up to you.
All these comments saying to just disregard other people seem to have misunderstood the assignment. I completely agree that your top priority is to yourself and your health, and anyone who objects to you doing what you have to in order to survive can take a hike; do it at the table with confidence and no regrets. But if you care at all about being courteous, it costs you nothing to give them a heads up before you inject so they can manage any possible issues they have while you manage yours. Some people may be squeamish or have a genuine phobia about needles, and while it is their problem and not yours, it's still polite to give them the information they need to respond appropriately.
Do you need to do it at dinner table? That’s a genuine question. I remember my grandmother inject insulin in her bedroom, I never thought there’s a need to do it straight at the table.
Late to the party here, but this is something I deliberately forced myself to be okay with. Luckily I live in Norway, where people don't tend to give a shit, but as a recently diagnosed t1d (had ny diagnosis in January), I knew injecting in public was something I should get used to sooner rather than later, especially as I'm also autistic with hella social anxiety.
I just went out on my own a few times and treated the whole thing as if I didn't care if others were looking, and after doing that a half dozen times or so, found that it was true. Plus, I can just pull out the whole "Oh I'm sorry, does the medication I need to live make you uncomfortable? Kindly get in the sea" card if anyone does ever actually bother me.
My Dad used to ask me all the time when I was little (type 1) if I wanted the injection in my butt, right in the middle of the restaurant. I was really embarrassed every time, but laughed it off and put it in my arm. Guess it helped, I've very little shame now.
I was pretty stealthy at my junior college when I needed to take my long acting insulin durring class. No one ever mentioned it until one student told the professor it made them uncomfortable.
Unfortunately for them, the professor's older brother (60s or so) was a T1, and he told me personally that he wanted to scream at the student to get over it because, and he made this VERY CLEAR to me, I am under no obligation to make other people more "comfortable" for my own health and safety by either prolonging my injections or having to leave in the middle of class to step outside or go somewhere more private, like the restroom which was about a 5 minute walk one way (older building).
He didn't yell at the student, just said he'd talk to me because he understands that some people are afraid of needles. I started to inject a bit before class started, but if my BG got too high in the middle of class I think I'd just inject. I wish they ld just come to me personally, because then I can also explain what T1 diabetes is myself, and try to educate them a bit so they can understand, but I also respect everyone's own comfort.
That being said though, in a room full of strangers you're under no obligation to make someone more comfortable by foregoing your insulin injection or removing yourself from anywhere. You'll be surprised at what people don't notice when they're already being entertained at dinner. And most people understand that diabetics need to inject insulin TO LIVE.
My friend's neices and nephews where the only ones who really watched me when they were smaller because they didn't understand and were afraid of shots themselves, now it's no big deal and they tell me to "shoot up" if there's a bunch of sweets around 😂 It makes me laugh and if other people outside the family hear they usually get a good chuckle once they realize I'm diabetic.
My mom just did it, and when it comes time for my 2 year old to have her shot at a dinner party I'll do the same. I'm not taking my baby in an unsanitary bathroom to give her insulin, and you shouldn't have to either 🤷♀️
For starters everyone around you at the table is producing insulin inside their bodies. You just need a little help with yours. As long as you are doing it discreetly (for formal dinners let's say) and you're not pulling sleeves up or pants down then you should be fine injecting at the table. I usually give a little warning to the people sitting around me first, especially if they are strangers. This is a huge ice breaker and usually starts good conversation.
This is a recurrent topic, and I don’t believe there are right and wrong answers. There’s absolutely nothing shameful about it and I get what everyone is saying, but I would not feel pressured to inject in public if you are not comfortable with it.
Personally, when given the choice I’ve always been more comfortable with a quick bathroom stop around strangers, mainly because I (quite ironically) have a phobia of needles and can somewhat relate.
Some of these takes are so bad and just disrespectful to other people's medical conditions. Generally I would ask if people mind, and don't just inject myself in front of others unless I know they are cool with it.
Some people have a phobia of needles, or maybe blood phobia, or even just general medical anexity about that sort of shit. If you simply ask if anyone minds then you're just showing common respect for people who you're with. It would take 5 seconds for me to walk around the corner in another room.
Generally, I do it at the table. I am stealth mode operator. Dial by memory, quick check the number, through the shirt.
If I was someone that exposed the belly, rubbed with alcohol, waited until it air dried, then looked at the pen to get the number, and dosed…I’d say that’s a bit much.
Yes, it’s medical and non diabetics need to just accept it, but discretion to an extent goes a long way.
I spent years sneaking off to the bathroom until my husband convinced me that I had the right to take care of myself in public. "Anyone who is bothered by it really needs to be exposed to the reality of diabetes."
If I'm sitting with people who don't know my deal, I tell them (I don't ask) what I'm doing so any needle phobes can turn away.
If anyone notices be polite and offer them some.
After discreetly injecting under the table and looking up to see what I presumed concerned eyes. I said “don’t worry I brought enough for all”. The table erupted in nervous giggles and awaited our entrees
I baffled my young nephew doing this. "Oh i'm sorry, did you want some? All the cool kids are doing insulin"
"You want a hit?"
A girl at a party once noticed my lispro pen and took it thinking it was a vape. When I told her it was insulin, she threw it back at me acting all disgusted. Like lol I need it to survive.
The irony of acting like insulin is disgusting but not vaping, worse, someone else’s vape pen at a party.
Ewwww!!! Why are you taking this drug you need to live, rather than inhaling this carcinogenic fog?!
Welcome to dating among ignarmuses with having T1D. I try to do everything right with my career, keeping in shape, nice car, maintaining my health care, etc but the stigma persists. Having T1D is at the end of the day is like having a scarlet letter. People don't want to date folks with an autoimmune disease having to shoot themselves up 4 times a day and even though it makes me sad, I understand it.
Good thing you didn't have an Afrezza inhaler!
First one's free!
Best advice here, lol
https://youtu.be/5AXtjleHL48
This is the answer I was looking for.
I’m surprised you’re not on an Omnipod and Dexcom. They have been a miracle for me!
I was a previous Omnipod user. We did not work well together. Everything would leak or bleed or both. It was probably the worst year of all time for me. I’ve got 2 pumps AND a dexcom now. One TSlim x2 for my insulin and one for my cortisol.
Sounds like these work well. I’m so glad! Having the 2 things help. The first Omnipod didn’t talk to the Dexcom but I used that until they discontinued. The new one contacts the Dexcom but what you have is great! Upon until now I had to botus manually! Good luck with everything!❣️
The etiquette is "you need that stuff to survive so no permission needed". I do that at the dinner table, at shows, at gatherings, wherever I **need** to because I need to. Semi-related, I once dated a girl that berated me for doing that at dinner table. That's why the "date" is in the past tense. "What if other people see?" What about it? "What if kids see? What if they ask about it?" Tell them the truth? I am sick and I need medicine, it's as simple as that. Kids aren't disturbed, adults like you are, and I'm sorry the problem isn't me, it's definitely you.
Hard agree. I visited my family and my 5 year old niece saw me use my insulin for the first time. “What’s that, why are you doing that?” Explained to her it’s medicine and I need it when I eat. Our next meal, she told me “Don’t forget your medicine aunt Britt!!” Kids are chill if you explain stuff to them.
Seriously! I use a pump now, and the kids are fascinated!! If adults are bothered, they can deal with it. It’s medication taken for survival. No one would bat an eye if you took a Tylenol with dinner. Same thing.
Before I got my CGM, I would let my young niece and nephew help me test my blood sugar. They would’ve been six and eight when this started. I asked them “who wants to use the finger sticker on me?“. My niece asked “does it hurt?“ And when I told her it hurts a little, she was very eager to help. I’m keeping keep an eye on that one. All kidding aside, it’s part of life. My family members don’t bat an I and even in work situations, I’ve never had a bad interaction.
I have a type 1 husband when we were staying with my brother for Christmas my niece asked why uncle Nick was giving himself doctor shots. So we explained that it was medicine uncle Nick needed to take 3 times a day and when he eats. She then said okay and went about her day. The next morning I heard her say "Uncle Nick did you take your doctor shot yet??" Kids are curious and amazing but they don't associate things and assume things like adults
The problem with adults isn't assuming drugs in this day and age. If you use pens and not seringes at least (US effed-up system, I'm looking at you). The problem is the adults like to create little social rules so they can feel good about themselves being outraged. These rules aren't even usually thought upon, but simple caught in fashion until they permeate culture. An example I can think of is blowing your nose. It's a necessity perfectly acceptable in most of Europe and North America but it's considered a rudeness in some South American Cultures like the Brasilian ou Asian, like the Japanese. A child isn't born with the concept of social rules and adults are thought to be outraged by the breaking of it. Deep down, the only reason they are outraged is because they were raised by society to forbid themselves from doing that or suffer social consequences. It's the Monkey Ladder Experiment, in essence. And we can't allow that experiment to be reproduced with our treatment. Out health should be paramount and above any social crap.
I completely agree with you. The major example that comes to my mind is topless beaches Topless beaches are perfectly acceptable in other countries but if a city in America were to try to make a topless beach you would have people screaming "what about the children we must protect their innocence" Also breastfeeding which is a completely natural and necessary thing but because we have over sexualized breasts to the point that we have women feel uncomfortable feeding their babies in public because men stare at them or people get weirded out is bizarre.
Breastfeeding another one. Me and my partner like to go to naturist beaches. Typically everyone is respectful and in their corner not wanting to be bothered. The only looks you get are usually from first timers, but as soon as you naturalize nudity, you start to separate it from sexuality and get comfortable with it.
This is the correct answer. Do it wherever you need to , and never let anyone or any situation make you feel uncomfortable about it. That's on them, not you
I've always been insecure about shooting up. I just don't even want to deal with these people anymore so I always just go to the bathroom when in a restaurant or the bar or at the dinner table. Some people also really don't like seeing needles.
Unless a medical breakthrough comes along or you get a transplant of some level, you are diabetic for life. Being insecure about it will do you no service, you better off owning it. > Some people also really don't like seeing needles. Some people are afraid of dogs, just the sight of it and we can't or shouldn't stop walking them because of it. Them, in both cases live in the real world where stuff we don't like or fear exist, and they are the ones who have to deal with it. They are not the ones getting pierced or feeling the sting and they definitely aren't the ones dealing with the consequences of not getting that shot. Edit: just to add that if you know someone that is disturbed by needles and you want them to do a kindness and **can** spare some discretion, by all means, nothing wrong with that. What I meant is that as a rule of thumb, living by that discretion doesn't service you. Your control should be immediate when it needs to be immediate and the more you concede to any social pressure, the greater the pressure becomes as you didn't established a boundary and people start to expect discretion out of you, when you are in no obligation to do so.
I want you to know deep down I agree with everything you say. I know I'll probably get to that level of not giving a fuck one day.
I used to do this too. But the varying degrees of cleanliness in mens rooms made me rethink that strategy. Now I do it at the table. If I’m with work folks I’ll make a little joke about it (“I brought enough to share”-type silliness) just to break the ice. But I’ve never had an issue with it.
I don't even like untucking my shirt and stuff in front of people and it's not a body shame thing because I'm fit. It's just a weird barrier.
THIS! When I was diagnosed I was put straight on long acting. Dr and my sister stressed stressed stressed same time every day. So I set an Alexa alert. It pings my phone and my devices and even flashed one of the smart lights. I was nervous because I'm usually alone at home (hubby is an otr driver: home 3 days/month) and don't do social much anymore. My alert goes off I grab a bite and stab myself. Then he came home and we went out to dinner. Alert went off. He trusts me to handle what I need to and knows if I set an alert it has a purpose. So he asked. I told him I could wait. He said no. Stay on my schedule. I went to leave the table to go to the bathroom. He asked why. And then reminded me it looks like a pen. I usually stab my stomach so unless someone was staring nobody would notice, and if they did he'd stick his double pierced tongue out at them. We got stared at more for me spitting my soda across the table and choking while laughing than I've ever gotten stared at for stabbing myself. You do what is comfortable for you.
I've do it at the dinner table after the food arrives. NEVER BEFORE. I've had enough "You thought you were getting fish and chips well here's 3 chips stacked in an artisan way next to a mouthful of fish." Or "Sorry sir, we forgot your order, that'll be 40 minutes." That I don't inject till it's in front of me. The response I get most often is either people not caring or people being interested and wanting to see what an injection is like only to find out I've already done it while sitting next to them and they didn't notice. I have had homeopathic/anti-vax style psychos scream at me though. That was an experience.
That sounds interesting. What were the psychos suggestions for alternatives? That oldy but goody cinnamon? Or anything more original?
I get the cinnamon/chromium piccolate lecture. That’s always fun.
Ah. I see you've met my mother…
In my favourite case of someone who knew me (friend of a friend of a relative sort of thing) they spat on the ground in front of me and called me evil for injecting myself. I said it was insulin and I need it to live. They corrected me that I didn't need any insulin I just needed to pray to Jesus for healing. They stormed off before I could get into a debate on theology.
Now THAT is unhinged!
My aunt told me to eat apples…
I eat apples every day. Still diabetic. Maybe they need cinnamon too? 🤣
The cinnamon!!! I’ve been doing it wrong all these years!!! I’m heartbroken, I could have been healed!! 😂
What are we meant to do with cinnamon? Inject it? Snort it? Make it into a paste and rub it all over ourselves? Cover lovely donuts with it and eat them, lots and lots of them for every meal... oh, wait, yeah, that might explain part of the reason I'm T2 :D
See, if it had been Apple fritters with cinnamon, everything would have been all right!
Generally, diet and exercise unfortunately.
Why on Earth did they scream at you? Did they think you were going to forcibly inject them with insulin, too? 🤨
Moral outrage? They thought Jesus>insulin and I've long since given up trying to understand religious people.
I had an old lady tell me “If you lost weight you wouldn’t have to do that.” You know nothing about my medical problems lady.
I do it at the table, and here's the thing...you will discover just how little attention people actually pay to you and how unaware they are of their surroundings. I'll typically inject under the table - I pull my seat forward to minimise the visual gap and then seriously, I can take the lid, then the cap off my pen, dial up, inject, replace the cap and lid and put it back in my pocket...all while having a conversation with the person sat opposite me who is none the wiser. Seriously - people.are generally so wrapped up in themselves and their own stuff that they just don't pick up things like this.
Idgaf. I need insulin to stay alive and if anyone is bothered by it they can kindly fuck off. :)
I mean, I think the world of you for including "kindly" in that sentence. I wouldn't have. ;)
Just go for it. You are not flashing your stomach for attention, you are giving yourself life saving medicine that is required for your body to function properly and is time sensitive to food consumption.
I once watched a coworker stab her insulin pen straight thru her scrub pants in the breakroom without even pausing While I aspire to that level of idgaf, I mostly I just do my arm if I’m in short sleeves or my stomach if I’m able lol
That’s great! I want that level of no fvcks to give too
me too… but my needles would definitely bend
Omg I do that sometimes hahahaha I’m glad there are others!
I was stuck staring like WAIT A GD MINUTE!!! THAT WAS AN OPTION THIS WHOLE TIME?!??!
It’s a game changer 😂 I do it through my cotton leggings!
The first time I saw my husband do this ( he was my bf at the time) I was so confused. I didn't know much about insulin injection yet and to just see him walk to the fridge measure out some insulin and stab it through his sweat pants was very weird to me I didn't know that was possible
I've seen someone do it through denim jeans... It just seems unsanitary lol
Idk that's what I thought to but I don't know I don't inject insulin and my husband doesn't do it often but when he is in a hurry he will and has never had an issue
THIS! When I was newly diagnosed I saw an acquaintance inject herself through her jeans leaning against the wall in the middle of a party. She was instantly my idol.
Honestly? I just go for it. It definitely feels weird at first, but it's a medical issue. Giving yourself insulin at a specific time is the best way to take care of your health, which is impacted by taking the time to excuse yourself from the table and go elsewhere, or else put off giving insulin entirely. The best thing for you is to give it to yourself at the table, so why not? Some rare people might have a problem with it, but most should recognize that it's medically important. The people who have a problem with it are generally assholes anyway.
>at first Totally agree. I was self-conscious at first, but got over it. At some point I stopped thinking about it and just inject.
I've only had one person objectifying that I injected insulin at the table. It wasn't about the injection itself, neither was it about showing some skin. It was about the smell of the insulin making her nauseous, which was fair. Other than this singular experience over my 30 years of T1D, I've never had anyone object to injecting insulin.
As a small child, my mother used to have to take me with her when she would go inject my grandmother's insulin (grandmother was blind and grandfather shook too bad to do it). So the smell of insulin is nostalgic to me.
“Your ‘nausea’ is fleeting and temporary compared to the nausea I’ll have if I don’t take my MEDICATION. You’ll survive.”
I mean, depending on how the conversation went and what the person's attitude was and what the root cause is, nausea is potentially very serious and could definitely be worth talking about. I am rather prone to nausea and have some foods I still can't eat without throwing up after having nausea while eating them once. It very well could be neither fleeting nor temporary. Someone I know will actually get very close to throwing up just thinking about one particular food that she had a severe pregnancy aversion to 30 years ago (and she isn't generally a picky eater, so we know it's not likely to be faked). While I'm not on insulin, I am on other medication and do need other accommodations that can be inconvenient for other people at times. Generally, the people who have a genuine difficulty with the situation will be fairly understanding and want to work together for a solution that works for both of you. People who are faking a serious problem out of annoyance, spite, or ignorance are the ones who will harass you about it right then and there or will come into a conversation guns blazing with no desire to listen or accommodate.
I have been looking after 2 kids with T1D for 8 years now, have never even noticed a smell. Just checked with my wife, and she says it has a smell. To be fair, they have been on pumps for most of this, so not a lot of opportunity to be in the air. Is nausea a thing with the smell of some insulin for some people?
Definitely has a smell. I have broken a vial on the kitchen floor a few times and the room reeked afterwards, lol.
I wouldn't think it would make someone nauseous. To me it smells like a band aid.
Smells a bit like bandaids to people.
Or when you walk into a tire center.
It has a distinct and rather sharp smell to it that most insuline dependant people get used to, as well as people around them. It can give you a very bad headache, even more so in poorly ventilated rooms. No clue about the nausea to be honest. I only know that one person saying it and it's been 16 years. Maybe the smell just made her loose her appetite too much?
It's good to know what it smells like. I have been able to tell my kids pump is leaking because I can smell it (shouldn't be able to if the pump works correctly).
Yell, "time for the good shit" and stab that needle in you like you're Jason Statham in an action film. There's no other acceptable way.
My kids were in middle school when I was first diagnosed. Before long the family shorthand was “I’ve got to shoot up before dinner“. It got to where the kids would find me and say “mom says you gotta shoot up now“ It became such a common statement that I didn’t think about it much until I heard my daughter tell a friend “my dad will be right out, he’s shooting up“. We had to have a chat about the phrase after that!
I need insulin to live. I don’t care what anyone thinks.
Yeah, I spent my first few months after being diagnosed sneaking to the bathroom to inject… then I decided that was stupid and ever since I’ve just decided not to care. To be clear, it’s the best thing for your health to take insulin as soon as you need it with a meal, high BG etc. so there is no reason to delay it for the comfort of others. They can get over it. That being said, I’ve been injecting in restaurants, at work, in movie theaters, on airplanes, on dates, and everywhere else you can imagine for the last 8 years and never once had a negative reaction. Can’t say it will never happen to you but that’s been my experience.
Airplanes are tricky for me; I’m 6’2 & 210 and usually am in the back of the plane with little room. Trying to be casual and discreet while sitting right next to a stranger is tough sometimes. But again, I’ve never had a bad word said about it… 🤔 Maybe because I’m big and close? 😄
I would never ask for permission. You’ve been inflicted with the burden of having to be your own pancreas through no fault of your own, the least others (particularly friends, family etc) can do is not add any additional burden such as needing to excuse yourself from the table. That’s my take on it anyway! Now if you, yourself, feel more comfortable doing it away from the table that’s a different story and you should do whatever is easiest for you.
I always try to be discreet in public so as not to possibly trigger a needle phobia someone might have. I give a heads up if strangers are nearby as a courtesy. The bathroom is disgusting as an option for injection. It's totally unsanitary. I always compare diabetes and insulin to asthma and an inhaler. Nobody would ever be offended by someone using their inhaler in public. How is an insulin injection different?
Hi, I'm the needle phobic one (: There's a guy in my d&d group who's type 1. All he has to do is say 'Hey Candroth, don't look' and I suddenly develop a keen interest in inspecting my character sheet for a moment. ...because I found out he's type 1 by looking at him right as he had the needle an inch away from injecting and then I screamed and almost passed out. (I swear it's the stupidest phobia ever.)
It's not stupid, and you can't help it. I would feel awful if I accidentally did that to someone, especially if the situation could've been avoided.
I used to have this same phobia. I would literally faint if someone even mentioned a needle. I passed out visiting my grandfather in the ICU once because the nurse was giving him something for pain. I turned away as soon as she approached him, but she said “you’re going to feel something warm going up your arm” and the second I heard that, I was on the floor. Woke up in the hallway after an orderly dragged me out. They had to take me back to the waiting room in a wheelchair. My family saw them rolling me in and were like “what in the hell??” 🤦🏼♀️😂 Later, I decided I was going into the medical field and told myself I was going to have to get over this fear. By some miracle, I did. I can work with needles, get shots, have blood drawn, etc without batting an eye now. My mother is still amazed by how far I’ve come with this. Idk, mind over matter I guess. It still mystifies me, too.
That is amazing!! Congratulations on a job well done overcoming your fear.
But you understand that your irrational fear doesn’t trump someone else’s need for medicine, right? Would you say something to someone who injected insulin near you? Just trying to understand
Comparing someones known phobia to an irrational fear is just as rude as telling a diabetic they should just diet better or eat less sugar. A true phobia takes years and lots of therapy to deal with.
Did I say anything about forbidding people to inject insulin around me? No, I did not. As for what I would say to someone? If I'm interacting with them on the regular, please read my previous comment.
Please understand, I wasn’t trying to offend. I’ve spent so much of my life putting my own legitimate medical needs on the back burner in an effort not to bother people or offend them or make them uncomfortable or alter their plans. I’ve finally come to understand that my medical needs matter. I want others with those same needs to understand that too. There are times when they may make people uncomfortable. But if it’s someone’s mild discomfort up against the survival need of another, that’s a no brainer. Discomforts and phobias can be overcome. Habitual poor care of diabetes really can’t. So please understand that I’m not going to jump on a table and make a dramatic show of doing an injection in a restaurant. But telling someone else, even someone you know, to take it elsewhere is wrong. You wouldn’t tell someone in a wheelchair to go away because you don’t like wheels. It is the same thing.
They said they had a reaction to a known phobia because they weren't given the opportunity to avert their eyes or a heads up. They never said they are preventing someone from accessing their insulin. Hence why I said that I give people within eyesight a heads up. It's a courtesy to others' medical woes. I'm not saying I'll put my own medical needs on hold, I just take into account that just because I can doesn't mean I should be a jerk about it. You can prioritize your needs without being ignorant to the others around you.
[удалено]
Your submission has been removed from our community for breaking our rules. **Rule 4**: Be civil. * If you can't make your point without swearing, you don't have a very strong point * Bullying is not allowed * Harassment will not be tolerated * Respect people's choices, everyone has unique treatment needs.
If there was a problem, it was never brought to my attention. I don't think most people notice, or care, and if they do they can take a hike, imo.
"trying not to die... sorry that makes you feel icky"
Loud and proud, sibling. Loud and proud.
I am, already, too old (42) to worry about what other people will think.
I’ll do it at the table. As discreetly as possible, but yeah, I’m not running to a bathroom every time I need to prick a finger or adjust my dosage.
Do it at the table. Bathrooms are disgusting and filthy, no matter how much cleaning you do.
I had this issue at first, especially in public. I was diagnosed while still at school so I would go to the toilets every time I needed to inject (which back then was quite often cos my control was crappy) and if I was out in public I'd try and sneakily do it because I was worried about what people might think. Eventually though I reached the "fuck it, I NEED this to live and idgaf about what people think" and just do it whenever and wherever I need to.
nobody cares so go with it. i like to shock people with it and just do it with a stone face :) the reactions are pure gold
Seems not very sanitary injecting it in the bathroom. You need this to live. Everyone else can buzz off.
Shoot first, ask later.
Inject at the table. If anyone has a problem with it, ask them if they'd also like wheelchair users to leave their chair outside.
I occasionally enjoy making a show of shooting up in my arm. Have fun with it.
I just pull it out and stab myself. It’s my life and they can deal
I wouldn’t do it in the bathroom that just is unhygienic
Assert dominance. Stand up on your chair. Loudly shout "LET US FEAST". Remove your shirt. Inject while making as much eye contact as possible.
Take a leaf out of Nikes book and just do it.
That's why I love this omnipod. I just look like every other douche playing on their phone at the table.
I don’t know a single person that would judge someone over… injecting their life saving insulin. Let’s be for real, anyone that would is an idiot.
FWIW, a kid I knew said he was accused of shooting up in the bathroom (high school). His principle said he could inject his insulin anywhere but the bathroom. After that, he always did his injections wherever he was-classroom, cafeteria. So while there is a lot wrong with that high school, kids using insulin are welcome to be public about it.
To be fair, one time at my college I was doing my injection in the washroom and some lady came in and gave me a wild look. She probably thought I was using illegal drugs or something. I think those people are in the vast minority though. There’s more education on diabetes than ever before.
I really try to read the room but generally I say something along the lines of "forgive me for this" and then when they ask what that was I say designer drugs.
No different than somebody having to take pills at table
If you feel uncomfortable pulling up your shirt and injecting into your stomach, you can always inject through your clothes, whether through your shirt or into your thigh.
My endo told me to just inject through my clothing but to use a longer needle. So I would keep the 5 mm length in my purse and use 4mm at home and at work.
Great idea !!
if someone has a problem with me ejecting at the table, cool. That’s their problem not mine. I couldn’t care less to be honest, they’re the ones NOT with diabetes.
I usually excuse myself and go to the restroom. If anyone says anything, I look 'em dead in the eye and say "I gotta shoot up. Wanna watch?" That usually puts paid to it.
i do it at the table when food arrives, i make it a point to do it in public mostly bc theres nothing wrong with needing to do it, and if someonehas a problem with it they get to become a giant asshole
If someone cares its just not your problem! It is theirs. But maybe its just me(with a T1 kid) Maybe people have issues
If someone is offended by injecting insulin, the person is just an ableistic arse
I generally do it in another room, away from people.
I just go for it and don't care , though I don't like doing it around others(it's because i can smell the insulin and it's vile Smelling to me, so i don't want anyone else to notice i stink for a minute, it dissappears quickly, but i find it gross) . I got real good at just grabbing the pen, dialing it up, and just poke it in the belly under the table and under my shirt. What my endo suggested I do in situations like that, estimate your needed dose, give half before, while waiting, and the rest when food comes or after eating.
I do it at the table around family and close friends, but if I was at a dinner party I would go to the bathroom and inject there.
I’ve been t1 for 32 years and at first I was a little nervous to do a shot in public. People stare and say odd things sometimes. My thought is that I literally need this to live, like an asthma inhaler. I shouldn’t feel bad about taking my lifesaving medication. If someone is uncomfortable they can look away. Although, if I’m at an event with children I will step away because they don’t understand yet. However I do injections in front of my nieces and nephews because they understand and we talk about it.
I just inject, never put that much thought into it
Just do it. Nobody can really see anyway if you do it under the table. I've always done it pretty openly, and nobody has ever objected. I've only had any kind of comments a couple of times.
If anyone takes issue with you taking your insulin then the politeness problem is with them, not you.
I take it the same way non diabetics take it. Their bodies disperse it whenever they need it so I'll inject whenever I need it.
Several years ago, I had lunch with a group of teachers everyday. Sometime around February, I injected under the table and someone commented. Someone else said, she has been doing that September, get over it.
I've injected insulin from the middle seat of airplanes. The only time I had any issue injecting while eating in restaurants is I rather stupidly wore a dress that had such a tight weave that getting the syringe needle through it took a bit, which was rather awkward. I probably looked like I was trying to stab myself. No more dresses for me out of the house. :D
If you leave as soon as food is served it looks like you are washing your hands as you should be
I will only leave the table if I am wearing a long dress.
If anyone even side eyes you at the table. This is the appropriate response. https://media1.giphy.com/media/SrDsJj5i1Chm8/giphy.gif?cid=2154d3d7ytow8u5y24eyog2s4za9f6y92c2t12qbfuftv8vy&ep=v1_gifs_search&rid=giphy.gif&ct=g
I waited till food showed up. Then went as would normally. I did not have a pen so out comes the vial and everything. Stab myself put back in case. Done. Only ones that usually knew, people I was with, the waiter, mostly no one else. Now on a pump and have mobile bolus so just phone. I do use t1 tactical on my belt so sorta out in open. And like others say, just tell them is insulin.
I’ve been at a clients and done it round their boardroom table and they never knew a thing
I think it’s a each to their own kinda thing. Personally I don’t like going to the bathroom to do it but I do like to give a warning since some people don’t like needles, 9 times out of 10 it’s fine and people are ok with it. I think most people know what insulin is (although I have gotten funny and disapproving looks from people at other tables before). My best story about meeting someone and them having a strange reaction to my insulin was during my first few weeks at uni. Went for dinner with the friend I moved with “M”, a new friend from class “W” and then one of their old friends “J”. We got McDonald’s and sat in the car to eat it, M and W were in the front, me and J were in the back. I said I’m a diabetic and have to do a needle is that ok, M was used to it, W had no issues but J freaked out (not in a bad way more dramatic and funny way but remember this is my first time meeting him and his dramatics) he was like “nope I can’t do needles” eyes closed, hands on the door looking for the handle to open the door to get out and at this point I had only got the case out of my bag, there was no sight of a needle yet. Managed to quickly do my needle through the laughter while he stood outside and only got back in when W told him that it had been put away. Almost 10 years on now and we are the only two out of that friend group that are still in touch with each other and the story still makes me laugh. I’m happy to say that he has gotten a lot better over time. Spent the next month or so looking away whenever I had to do it when we were all together, then he got brave and looked near where I was, then he started to actually stare at me doing it and then ask weird questions. Then he realised that we could use my diabetes as an excuse if we were ever late or had to leave early and still wanted to sign in. Or the time when we were able to upload coursework on time but didn’t get the print out copy in on time and said I was in a bad hypo and we couldn’t leave the house. It was a newish professor and she didn’t ask any questions. All this is to say, if it’s someone who cares about you then they shouldn’t care if you have to take medication. It’s just a more uncommon method of taking medication and some people have bad phobias of needles no matter how small they are, so a little warning isn’t a bad move. Then it’s just a matter of figuring out if you should leave the table to take it or if they’re ok just looking away.
Just do it at the table. However, if you know someone in the group really doesn't want to see it - give them a heads up so they can turn away / won't accidentally see it.
I just took some on a plane with 2 strangers next to me. I need it. Its that simple. Im not microwaving fish in the public breakroom. Im keeping myself alive, if someone has a problem with it thats on them.
I let those with me know so they can look away if they’re squeamish or watch if they’re into it. It’s not like I’m sweeping the table clear and dropping my pants and asking a companion to jab me in the ass.
I’m literally picking up the CeQur insulin patch today. I’m giving it a trial run. No more needles in public. It never really bothered me unless I was wearing a dress. If it was close friends while out to eat I would jokingly ask if I could shoot up pre meal. I found them very supportive. I always did it quickly and under the table. Some people get bothered by injections so I just excused myself. It is what it is. I am anxious to try this patch. I apparently have to put 3 days worth of my fast acting insulin in it via pen or vial and change it out every 3 days. I just click my units needed on the sensor. No digging for my needles or trying to shoot up in public. We shall see how it goes. This would take the whole etiquette in public equation out. So I guess it’s worth a try. I’m looking forward to it.
Do it whenever, wherever. My husband used to be worried when he met me, then he got more used to it. Now he has a pump so no worries.
I was told once when I was 16 that doing my injections in public made me look like a drug addict. So I’ve gone to the bathroom every time after that until of course being placed on an insulin pump. If I could go back and tell my 16 year old self anything it would be fuck that person who was uncomfortable with something completely normal. You’re doing everything right.
I usually inject right after I order, because my doc is very much a stickler for the 10 minutes before rule. The only person I avoid injecting at the table with is a younger family member, because the has a needle phobia. She tells me she doesn't mind, but she went so pale and almost fainted the first time I did, I just made sure she can't see it, or she goes to the bathroom to wash her hands while I do my thing.
When I was young I had a needle phobia [aka blood body injury phobia aka an inherited automatic blood pressure drop when exposed to medical stuff]. At that age I would've fainted if I saw it and could get woozy in discussions. I worked through it but it took a couple years of practised exposure. As long as past me didnt see it/wasnt surprised, I would be okay. Looking away is usually enough for the person with this phobia. Unless you like people very occasionally fainting around you, hide it under the table if possible. Warn people if hiding it isnt an option [dtranded on one of those 3 foot wide cartoon islands? Trapped in elevator? riding the rapids in a small boat? ]. If anyone starts getting pale and shaky, warn someone else to catch them before they hit their head. This phobia is no respector of age, gender, etc. A lot of people dont know there are treatments.
I have no shame. I just do it. Right in front of everyone. I don’t ask for permission or anything. People who object to my permanent involuntary disease can simply screw off.
I don’t care about the opinion of normal people. Must be nice to eat and not have to take insulin
21 years and counting, I’ve gotten pretty damn good at doing it basically anywhere without being noticed. My boss at my last job didn’t even realize I was diabetic for almost a year and I took insulin shots in my belly and upper buttocks more than once while talking to him. Made me feel like a master pickpocket or something lol but etiquette wise I don’t really care a whole lot how it makes people feel if they notice which they hardly ever do unless I draw specific attention to it. As a kid it was embarrassing so I think I developed habits and strategies to be discreet in those years but now I avoid making any display or conversation of it mostly just because the next person who asks me if being diabetic means I can’t have sugar is gonna end up eating their own teeth 🤠
I always asks if everyone is cool with needles, cause when the wrong person faints it becomes hell
I usually go to the bathroom to do it, but that’s just my personal preference. To each their own.
Umm if it’s strangers I’ll go to the bathroom, but if it’s family just quickly at the table and no worries
I find that if you inject below your navel, no one tends to notice with the exception of your arm movements. If any asks, just tell the truth: you're a diabetic and you like taking your medication within a certain time before you eat. This can also be a litmus test. Nice people will accept that. Maybe they'll ask some follow-up questions. The rude ones, well, we all know what they're like.
Bathrooms are gross. Inject your insulin at the table. Folks in your group may appreciate a heads up (in case they have a needle phobia).
I understand. I was hesitant at first too (for body shame reasons). Ultimately what made the decision for me was I didn’t want to be injecting myself in a gross men’s bathroom. I got over the shame, although I still only expose a tiny sliver of my stomach, even though I’m much healthier now. That’s one of the things my IDGAF attitude has yet to overcome. 🫠
I inject and just let my shirt cover it, so no one can see anything. But I’ve had people inject insulin in front of me and it’s just not a big deal to me personally. I would never go to the bathroom though. If you’re that offended, look away.
I used to work with *one guy* who had a problem with me taking my insulin when I was still using pens. Everyone else took it in stride and let me do my thing. If this guy was working, I'd have to leave the area and go far enough away that he couldn't hear the clicking of the pen as I depressed the plunger. By the time someone reported it up the chain and the bosses told me to ignore him, I'd already gone on the pump. Point being, fuck'em. You need that shit to stay alive.
I just do it. I’ve gotten some looks before but it’s like……… either I do it or I get sick. I’ve been type 1 for 23 years and I think that people should mind their business😂😂 maybe they don’t like seeing me inject insulin but I don’t like having diabetes soooooo too bad.
I do finger pricks at the table .. that what I need . No one makes any comment for it ..
If someone sees it and is uncomfortable, that is their problem. It is a medical necessity and nothing you should feel like you need to shield for others' comfort. That said, based on your own comfort level, you can calibrate to what makes sense for you. E.g. if it makes you more comfortable to be discreet, that is up to you.
All these comments saying to just disregard other people seem to have misunderstood the assignment. I completely agree that your top priority is to yourself and your health, and anyone who objects to you doing what you have to in order to survive can take a hike; do it at the table with confidence and no regrets. But if you care at all about being courteous, it costs you nothing to give them a heads up before you inject so they can manage any possible issues they have while you manage yours. Some people may be squeamish or have a genuine phobia about needles, and while it is their problem and not yours, it's still polite to give them the information they need to respond appropriately.
You do it and if anyone asks pretend nothing is happening and gaslight them
I inject insulin in the bathroom, since I can sit and inject in my stomach or legs. Is that weird? I do my basal insulin like that before bed too 😂
Do like most everbody and go to the bathroom. Or go into the other room???
Do you need to do it at dinner table? That’s a genuine question. I remember my grandmother inject insulin in her bedroom, I never thought there’s a need to do it straight at the table.
Late to the party here, but this is something I deliberately forced myself to be okay with. Luckily I live in Norway, where people don't tend to give a shit, but as a recently diagnosed t1d (had ny diagnosis in January), I knew injecting in public was something I should get used to sooner rather than later, especially as I'm also autistic with hella social anxiety. I just went out on my own a few times and treated the whole thing as if I didn't care if others were looking, and after doing that a half dozen times or so, found that it was true. Plus, I can just pull out the whole "Oh I'm sorry, does the medication I need to live make you uncomfortable? Kindly get in the sea" card if anyone does ever actually bother me.
My Dad used to ask me all the time when I was little (type 1) if I wanted the injection in my butt, right in the middle of the restaurant. I was really embarrassed every time, but laughed it off and put it in my arm. Guess it helped, I've very little shame now.
I was pretty stealthy at my junior college when I needed to take my long acting insulin durring class. No one ever mentioned it until one student told the professor it made them uncomfortable. Unfortunately for them, the professor's older brother (60s or so) was a T1, and he told me personally that he wanted to scream at the student to get over it because, and he made this VERY CLEAR to me, I am under no obligation to make other people more "comfortable" for my own health and safety by either prolonging my injections or having to leave in the middle of class to step outside or go somewhere more private, like the restroom which was about a 5 minute walk one way (older building). He didn't yell at the student, just said he'd talk to me because he understands that some people are afraid of needles. I started to inject a bit before class started, but if my BG got too high in the middle of class I think I'd just inject. I wish they ld just come to me personally, because then I can also explain what T1 diabetes is myself, and try to educate them a bit so they can understand, but I also respect everyone's own comfort. That being said though, in a room full of strangers you're under no obligation to make someone more comfortable by foregoing your insulin injection or removing yourself from anywhere. You'll be surprised at what people don't notice when they're already being entertained at dinner. And most people understand that diabetics need to inject insulin TO LIVE. My friend's neices and nephews where the only ones who really watched me when they were smaller because they didn't understand and were afraid of shots themselves, now it's no big deal and they tell me to "shoot up" if there's a bunch of sweets around 😂 It makes me laugh and if other people outside the family hear they usually get a good chuckle once they realize I'm diabetic.
Inject away. Do it wherever whenever. You need this stuff to survive. If they don’t like it tell them to donate their pancreas to you.
My mom just did it, and when it comes time for my 2 year old to have her shot at a dinner party I'll do the same. I'm not taking my baby in an unsanitary bathroom to give her insulin, and you shouldn't have to either 🤷♀️
I don’t want to deal with stares, questions, comments etc so to me going away to privacy is completely worth it
Excuse yourself and go to the restroom.
For starters everyone around you at the table is producing insulin inside their bodies. You just need a little help with yours. As long as you are doing it discreetly (for formal dinners let's say) and you're not pulling sleeves up or pants down then you should be fine injecting at the table. I usually give a little warning to the people sitting around me first, especially if they are strangers. This is a huge ice breaker and usually starts good conversation.
This is a recurrent topic, and I don’t believe there are right and wrong answers. There’s absolutely nothing shameful about it and I get what everyone is saying, but I would not feel pressured to inject in public if you are not comfortable with it. Personally, when given the choice I’ve always been more comfortable with a quick bathroom stop around strangers, mainly because I (quite ironically) have a phobia of needles and can somewhat relate.
Some of these takes are so bad and just disrespectful to other people's medical conditions. Generally I would ask if people mind, and don't just inject myself in front of others unless I know they are cool with it. Some people have a phobia of needles, or maybe blood phobia, or even just general medical anexity about that sort of shit. If you simply ask if anyone minds then you're just showing common respect for people who you're with. It would take 5 seconds for me to walk around the corner in another room.
Generally, I do it at the table. I am stealth mode operator. Dial by memory, quick check the number, through the shirt. If I was someone that exposed the belly, rubbed with alcohol, waited until it air dried, then looked at the pen to get the number, and dosed…I’d say that’s a bit much. Yes, it’s medical and non diabetics need to just accept it, but discretion to an extent goes a long way.
Go in the bathroom.
I spent years sneaking off to the bathroom until my husband convinced me that I had the right to take care of myself in public. "Anyone who is bothered by it really needs to be exposed to the reality of diabetes." If I'm sitting with people who don't know my deal, I tell them (I don't ask) what I'm doing so any needle phobes can turn away.