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Diabetes Support, Education and Community Resources

Diabetes can be a lifelong condition and managing it takes more than medication or doctor visits alone. Ongoing education, encouragement and connection with others can make a meaningful difference in how you feel and how well you manage your health. 

At Banner Health, we offer diabetes support programs, education and community resources to help you stay active, eat well and build confidence in managing diabetes. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been living with diabetes for years, support is available every step of the way. 

Support groups: Connect with others living with diabetes 

Living with diabetes can feel isolating at times. Support groups offer a safe, understanding environment where you can share challenges, celebrate successes and learn from others who have similar experiences. 

Support groups provide emotional encouragement, practical tips and a sense of community that can help you navigate the day-to-day realities of diabetes. 

Types of diabetes support groups 

In-person support groups 

Connect face-to-face with others in your community. In-person groups offer a welcoming space to share experiences, exchange ideas and build meaningful relationships. 

Virtual (online) support groups 

Online groups allow you to connect from home through video meetings or digital platforms. These groups provide flexibility and access to support regardless of location. 

Social media communities 

Many people connect with others living with diabetes through social media platforms such as Facebook and TikTok. You can search for hashtags like #type1diabetes or #diabetessupport to find online communities and shared experiences. 

Specialized support programs 

Some programs are designed for specific needs, such as newly diagnosed individuals, parents and children with diabetes or people managing diabetes later in life. These groups offer tailored education, expert guidance and peer support. 

Take action: Use our calendar to find an upcoming diabetes support group near you. 

Diabetes education programs 

Banner Health offers comprehensive diabetes education and management programs tailored to individual needs. These programs include one-on-one consultations with a diabetes educator and registered dietitian. 

Available services may include: 

  • Prediabetes education 
  • Gestational diabetes counseling 
  • Diabetes medication and insulin instruction 
  • Insulin pump training and management 
  • Medical nutrition therapy for a variety of diagnoses 

Check with your diabetes health care provider to find a program available in your area. 

Additional diabetes education classes and resources 

Education plays a key role in managing diabetes with confidence. Our diabetes education classes help you better understand your condition, build practical self-care skills and stay informed about advances in diabetes care. 

We also offer educational tools and digital resources to support learning outside of the classroom. 

  • Living Well with Diabetes resource guide: Download our easy-to-use eBook, available in English and Spanish. It includes guidelines, meal plans, worksheets, blood sugar monitoring logs and more. 
  • Diabetes Interactive Education app: This interactive app features five learning modules with videos based on real-life situations, along with quizzes to reinforce learning. 

Dietary resources 

Proper nutrition is an important part of diabetes care. Explore meal plans, recipes and nutrition tips designed to support healthy blood sugar levels. Our registered dietitians can help you make informed food choices that align with your health goals. 

Community programs 

Community programs offer opportunities to stay active, learn new skills and connect with others in a supportive environment. 

Banner Health offers a monthly Easy Fitness Basics – After Work Class. This free, 60-minute online class is open to everyone and does not require you to be a Banner Health patient. 

During the class, you’ll learn: 

  • How much physical activity to aim for 
  • Which activities work best for different fitness levels 
  • How to exercise safely and confidently 

Additional community programs and trusted resources 

You can also explore diabetes education and support through these organizations: 

No matter where you turn, seeking support means more than gaining information. It means becoming part of a community that understands, encourages and empowers you. 

Next step: Coping with diabetes 

Managing diabetes isn’t only about physical health. Emotional well-being matters too. Explore strategies for coping with stress, building resilience and maintaining a positive mindset while living with diabetes.