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T2D Network Blog
Written by Clare Koning, RN, PhD Clare Koning, RN, PhD is a senior medical writer and healthcare communications consultant with 20+ years of international experience across nursing leadership, clinical operations, and scientific publications. She specializes in translating complex clinical and scientific data into clear, high-impact content for healthcare professionals and patients.
Blog Author: Clare Koning
Clare is a freelance healthcare writer and registered nurse with over 20 years of international experience. She specializes in evidence-based health communications and currently leads digital content strategy and development for the T2D Network.
Can Mindfulness Actually Lower Your Blood Sugar? What the Evidence Really Shows
A 2025 meta-analysis of 31 RCTs found mindfulness reduced HbA1c by 0.44% and produced large reductions in stress and depression in people with T2D.
T2D Network
7 min read
The Mind-Metabolism Connection
Depression and T2D share biological pathways through inflammation, cortisol, and insulin resistance. This Mental Health Month, here's what the evidence says about the mind-metabolism connection.
T2D Network
5 min read
The Prescription We're Not Writing: Sleep Assessment in T2D Care
Sleep is rarely assessed in diabetes care — yet poor sleep and undiagnosed OSA drive insulin resistance. Here's what the 2024–2026 evidence says, and what to do now.
T2D Network
6 min read
Beyond the Clinic: Addressing the Root Causes of Diabetes Inequity in Indigenous Communities
Diabetes prevalence is 244% higher in First Nations individuals on reserve. Explore the structural causes, clinical implications, and tools for culturally safe care for Indigenous Peoples with T2D in BC.
T2D Network
6 min read
Diabetes Burnout Is Real. It's Time We Treated It That Way.
79% of people with diabetes report burnout, and 3 in 4 have interrupted treatment as a result. Here's what the evidence says, and what needs to change in how we care for people with T2D.
T2D Network
5 min read
The Hidden Cost of Bad Sleep: What Your Nights Are Doing to Your Blood Sugar
Short sleep is now a recognized risk factor for type 2 diabetes. New evidence shows even mild sleep restriction raises insulin resistance by up to 20% in women. Here's what the science means for care.
T2D Network
7 min read
October Poll for Healthcare Providers: Diabetes, Mental Health, and Self-Management
T2D Network Monthly Poll: Your input can inspire and help others, thanks for being part of the conversation!
T2D Network
1 min read
Understanding the Link Between Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes
Explore the link between obesity and type 2 diabetes, the role of GLP-1 medications, and why lifestyle changes remain essential for long-term health.
T2D Network
4 min read
Media Matters: How Representation Shapes Diabetes Perception
Explore how media representation shapes perceptions of diabetes in Canada and globally, highlighting the importance of authentic, stigma-free portrayals to empower individuals and improve public understanding.
T2D Network
4 min read
Fighting for Equity: How Stigma Affects Access to Diabetes Care
Explore how diabetes stigma affects access to care in Canada and globally, and discover strategies to promote equity, compassion, and inclusive, person-centered diabetes management.
T2D Network
3 min read
From Blame to Support: Changing the Narrative Around Type 2 Diabetes
Explore why the blame-based narrative around Type 2 diabetes is harmful and how a supportive, empowering, and person-centered approach improves health outcomes and wellbeing.
T2D Network
4 min read
Language Matters: How Language Shapes Diabetes Care
This article explores the shift from judgmental, stigmatizing words to a collaborative, person-first approach backed by leading health organizations, highlighting why "language matters" for people with diabetes.
T2D Network
5 min read
Diabetes in Canada: Understanding, Supporting, and Empowering Diverse Communities
Diabetes in Canada is a growing health challenge. Understanding its cultural, social, and emotional impact helps patients, families, seniors, and healthcare providers support effective, empathetic management.
T2D Network
3 min read
Healthcare Without Shame: Addressing Stigma in Clinical Settings
Explore the damaging effects of diabetes stigma in healthcare settings. We examine how provider bias impacts patient well-being and outline practical strategies for a more compassionate, shame-free approach to clinical care.
T2D Network
3 min read
Why We Need to Talk About Diabetes Stigma – Now
Learn about diabetes stigma in Canada and how misconceptions harm mental health and healthcare. Find out what you can do to change the conversation and reduce its impact.
T2D Network
3 min read
Addressing the Cultural Stigma of Type 2 Diabetes in India and Beyond
Explore how stigma around type 2 diabetes in India and worldwide affects care, mental health, and social equity, and what we can do to end it.
T2D Network
6 min read
Diabetes Stigma: Understanding the Social Realities of Living with Diabetes in Canada
Explore how stigma affects Canadians living with diabetes. A 2024 study reveals that over 68% of people with Type 2 diabetes face blame, judgment, and social exclusion. Learn how this impacts emotional health—and what must change.
T2D Network
7 min read
Social Prescribing: The Prescription You Didn’t Know You Needed
Discover how social prescribing bridges healthcare and community support by addressing social needs, improving mental health, and reducing chronic disease burden in Canada.
T2D Network
7 min read
Understanding Stigma in T2D: Beyond the Surface of Misconceptions and Judgment
This vodcast featuring Krista Lamb and Dr. Diane Finegood explores the complex issue of stigma in Type 2 Diabetes (T2D).
T2D Network
6 min read
Exploring the Link Between Mental Health and Diabetes: Expert Insights
Explore the link between mental health and diabetes with expert insights from Dr. Mahavir Agarwal and Dr. Diana Sherifali.
T2D Network
2 min read
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