Endocrine and metabolic disorders

Diabetes Type 1

An autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells, requiring lifelong insulin therapy.
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      • Diabetes Type 1

About

Type 1 diabetes is a condition where the body’s immune system attacks the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Insulin is needed to control blood sugar levels.

People with Type 1 diabetes need to take insulin for life to manage their blood sugar levels.

This condition is often invisible.

Many disabilities, including this one, may not have outward signs—people can be significantly impacted even if they appear “fine” on the outside.

Common Challenges

  • Frequent medical appointments for managing the condition.
  • Need to monitor blood sugar levels regularly, which may interfere with work.
  • Fatigue from managing the condition and potential low or high blood sugar levels.
  • Increased thirst and water intake needing more bathroom breaks.
  • Increased risk of workplace injury due to fluctuations in blood sugar.
  • Difficulty managing stress, which can affect blood sugar levels.
  • Fear of experiencing hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) while at work.
  • Possible discrimination or misunderstanding about the condition.

Practitioner Help

  • Help the participant create a job search plan that takes their health needs into consideration.
  • Support the participant in communicating their needs to potential employers, focusing on how they manage their diabetes effectively.
  • Offer guidance on how to request reasonable accommodations in the workplace.
  • Assist with resume writing and preparing for job interviews, ensuring confidence in explaining the condition if necessary.
  • Encourage self-management skills to handle the physical demands of work while balancing diabetes care.
  • Provide resources for understanding workplace rights and responsibilities.

Common Accommodations

  • Access to a refrigerator
  • Flexible work hours (for managing health conditions)
  • A private, comfortable space for medical treatments
  • Regular breaks or access to quiet rest areas
  • Flexible work hours or part-time schedules
  • Adjustments in workload to reduce stress
View more on enableDex

Notes

Williams Syndrome presents a mix of strengths and challenges. Leveraging verbal abilities while providing structured support for spatial tasks and sensory sensitivities helps individuals succeed in the workplace.

May is Williams Syndrome Awareness Month

Resources

  • Type 1 diabetes - symptoms, diagnosis and treatment | healthdirect
  • Type 1 diabetes | Diabetes Australia
  • Type 1 diabetes - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
Endocrine and metabolic disorders

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