Back to College With Diabetes Amidst COVID-19
The resource below was originally published by our friends at The Diabetes Link (formerly known as the College Diabetes Network).
Whether classes are in-person, online, or a mix—our network, resources and virtual events will connect you to the community and information you need to thrive. Check out our Off to College guides for everything college and type 1 diabetes (T1D).
#1 Wear a Mask and Socially Distance
Protect your own health and stay current with the latest information on COVID & T1D from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and at coronavirusdiabetes.org.
#2 Create Your Communications Plan
- Make sure those around you understand T1D—RAs, professors, campus health center, friends and roommates.
- Make a plan to connect with your closest family and friends—before school starts!
- If you use a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), consider giving access to a caregiver or friend.
- Discuss your high and low symptoms, along with the location of glucagon and how to use it, with roommates and friends.
- Carry some form of medical ID: jewelry, wallet card, or phone app indicating you have T1D.
- Save important numbers in your phone—diabetes clinic on-call number, insurance company, local pharmacy, customer/tech support for your supplies and devices.
#3 Know Your School’s Plan for Returning to Campus
Returning to campus or learning from home? Research & make the decision that’s right for you! Consider:
- Residence halls
- Shared living space (on/off campus)
- Dining services
- In-person classes and labs
- Campus health and other support services
- Contingency plans in case of COVID-19 outbreak on Campus
#4 Register for Accommodations
CDN strongly encourages all students to register for accommodations.
- Consider all forms of accommodations (academic/residential/dining), whether on campus or virtual.
- Update existing plans to reflect changes in your learning or living environment.
- Make an appointment with your school’s disability office to discuss before classes begin.
#5 Back to Basics
Take time to review:
- Sick day management
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)—management and prevention
- Severe hypoglycemia & glucagon options
- Alcohol
- Stress and burnout
- Exercise and healthy eating
During COVID-19, keeping your blood sugars within your target range is critical.
#6 Stock Up on Supplies and Plan Ahead
- Set re-order reminders—don’t wait until you’re out! Or, sign up for auto-fill.
- Select a 90-day supply option for prescriptions and supplies, if possible.
- Have an extra set of diabetes supplies available.
- Make sure prescriptions are current and review refill status with your care team.
- Update your shipping address and local pharmacy location—to match where you will be.
- Book telehealth visits in advance—don’t skip appointments.
- Know the options for discounts and coupons through Patient Assistance Programs.
#7 Sick Day Prep & Checklist
Make sure you have everything you need for a sick day BEFORE you get sick. This includes items like:
- Ketone strips/meter
- Water, crackers and sports drinks
- Syringes, vials, insulin pens, glucagon rescue options, thermometer
- Batteries, meters and test trips (including backups in case of device malfunctions)
- Pump settings and insulin doses written down as a backup
Find more out more about preparing for sick days from the CDC and our resource hub.
#8 Emergency Preparedness—for COVID-19 + Beyond
- Know where you will go for medical care in an emergency—a local hospital or clinic.
- Pack a ‘go-bag’ with enough diabetes supplies for a long-term hospital stay (i.e., up to 30 days).
- Include emergency contact information, copies of prescriptions and your insulin regimen plan.
- Have your insurance card ready and know your benefits.
- Consider having a Medical Power of Attorney or HIPPA Form.
- Don’t wait too long to seek help. When in doubt, call your care team!
#9 Mental Health Matters
Now more than ever stress, anxiety and diabetes burnout should be on your radar. We’re here to support you. Join one of our virtual events to connect with peers and professionals. If you need to talk to someone, you can find a mental health provider who specializes in diabetes.
Learning From Home? Set Boundaries! Communicate with your family or roommates about your schedule and when it’s ok to talk about your diabetes.
Editor’s Note: You can find additional resources for mental health support here.
#10 Get Involved with The Diabetes Link
For more than 10 years, The Diabetes Link (formerly as College Diabetes Network) has supported young adults as they transition to independence. Chapters are running strong on campus and off! Join or start one today.
Sign-up to receive monthly updates from The Diabetes Link.
Caregivers, join our private Facebook group.
