Diabetes Touches Every Kind of Closeness

Closeness is more than sex. It includes talk, touch, affection and sex. A long talk counts. So does a massage, a hug or holding each other on the couch.

Diabetes can shape each of these in its own way. It might change your energy, your mood or the time you have together.

Diabetes is a daily job. Meals, checks and medicines all take time and thought. They add up over a day.

Think of your energy like a phone battery. Each small task uses a little charge. By evening, there may be less left for closeness.

Mood can shift too. A heavy day can make small things feel bigger, so notice when that is happening.

A low blood sugar can make you shaky, sweaty, confused or unusually quiet. You might also feel anxious. These signs can appear during closeness. Your partner may not know what is happening.

Say what you notice, out loud. Your partner can then respond to what you tell them, instead of guessing. If lows keep happening, tell your doctor, and call emergency services for a serious low.

Key takeaways

• Closeness includes talk, touch, affection and sex.
• Daily diabetes tasks can drain energy and shift mood.
• Naming a low out loud lets your partner respond instead of guessing.

Try it

Tonight, tell your partner about one kind of closeness you enjoy. Then ask which one they would like.