Ep 35 - Uncover Hope: Breaking Free from Forever Lies, Shame, and Isolation with Erika Forsyth, LMFT

In this episode, we explore Erika Forsyth's 33-year journey with type 1 diabetes. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, she combines personal experience and professional insight to share valuable lessons on managing this chronic condition.   Discover Erika's extensive experience living with type 1 diabetes and her unique perspective as a therapist. Raised in Southern California, she also has a brother with T1D. Erika recounts her unexpected diagnosis at age 12, experiencing symptoms during a volleyball tournament that led to passing out episodes and trips to a hospital.   Topics covered:   ·       Daily Life Impact: Erika reflects on childhood experiences, societal perceptions, and the influence of family and culture in managing diabetes. Her journey showcases resilience and hope found through support. ·       Mental Load and Diabetes: Delve into the constant decision-making and anticipation in chronic illness management. Erika emphasizes consistency, a task-driven approach, and the vital role of community support. ·       Living with Diabetes Openly: Discover the value of in-person connections and sharing experiences. Erika shares her personal struggles, including hiding insulin injections and the associated feelings of shame. ·       Challenges and Emotional Well-being: Addressing the difficulty of sharing one's diabetes experience, Erika emphasizes the importance of validation and cultivating a supportive community. Insights into managing emotions after 33 years highlight the role of self-compassion. ·       Identity and Long-Term Management: Explore the challenges of integrating diabetes into one's identity. Erika encourages choosing positive truths about oneself to navigate long-term management successfully.   Erika Forsyth Counseling / www.erikaforsyth.com On IG @erika_forsyth_lmft   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Follow me @bloodsugarboss on Instagram to stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover. *Join our Type 1 In Midlife community on the free Honey Health App to chat about podcast topics and more *Free Download - How to Thrive with Type 1 Diabetes After 40 *Contact us about our coaching programs Shop my favorite products