A peer-support group providing a safe, confidential space for people struggling with the daily challenges of diabetes has been launched.

The Bermuda Diabetes Association has enlisted Kennita Perry, a psychotherapist, counsellor and long-term diabetes patient, as facilitator of the programme.

Sara Bosch de Noya, a registered dietitian and diabetes educator for the Bermuda Diabetes Association, said: “The peer-support programme is new and is something that we have been talking about for some time.

“In diabetes associations around the world, and during the two years of conferences since the pandemic, there has been a lot of emphasis on peer-support programmes.

“There is a lot more recognition of the mental burden and there is a terminology recognised as diabetes distress, which contributes to burnout as a result of a person’s self-care. It can also happen if you are caring for a family member with diabetes.

“This programme is focusing on engaging people with diabetes in a positive way to connect with others, share stories and help overcome the obstacles of the mental burden of giving yourself the best care.

“People have access to education to understand what diabetes is, how to take medications, how to make healthy choices and do physical activity.

“The peer-support programme is an adjunct to clinical management. It makes people feel better and more connected in a group environment.

“We launched our Live Your Best Life campaign in December addressing the stigma that surrounds diabetes and putting a more positive spin on it. Diabetes support is critical to everybody with diabetes.”

The first group assembled last Monday. Ms Bosch de Noya said one of the participants of the first session described the experience as “transformational”.

Participants must sign a form of consent and confidentiality in order to attend. It is primarily for those with a type 1 or 2 diabetes diagnosis.

Ms Perry is the Bermuda Diabetes Association’s ambassador for the Live Your Best Life campaign.

She has a deep connection with the association, which she credits for saving her life.

As a result of complications brought about by diabetes, she had high blood pressure that caused her arteries to collapse.

She had multiple strokes and had to undergo brain surgery, she lost her memory as a result and had to relearn what she knew.

She has lived with diabetes for more than 30 years and said she wished there was a peer-support programme to help her get through it.

She said: “I had to relearn of who I was but I am grateful for it happening. I found ways to find that balance. I am grateful every single day I wake up. I think, ‘I made another day; what can I do to make this world a better place?’ ”

Speaking of some of the common struggles experienced by those with diabetes, Ms Perry said: “Something that comes up a lot is being tired of having to monitor every single thing, every single day — the food, the medication …

“People get tired of taking insulin. If they attend a special occasion, they may feel guilty about their food choices.

“The peer-support group is about being mindful. What can we do as a group to help each other out?

“We can hold each other accountable. I have a kindness jar and people are able to write kind words, words of encouragement to anybody.

“It’s about creating meaningful and powerful moments because there are times you feel utterly alone.”

The programme, which is in its pilot phase, will run on the second and fourth Monday during April, May and June from 6pm to 7.30pm.

Participants are asked to register as light refreshments are served during the sessions.

• For more information and to register, visit www.diabetes.bm