Thriving at Work with Diabetes: Tips for Every Type of Job

Work looks different for everyone. Some of us clock into a 9-to-5 office job, others hustle through gig work or night shifts, and plenty of us juggle multiple jobs to make life happen. No matter how you earn a living, one thing is the same: diabetes doesn’t take the day off.

Balancing diabetes at work isn’t just about managing numbers. It’s about feeling prepared, supported, and confident in any workplace setting. Here are practical tips to help you thrive on the job while living fearlessly with diabetes.

1. Build Your “Workday Diabetes Kit”

No matter your work environment (desk, warehouse, rideshare car, or retail floor), it helps to keep a small stash of essentials close by. Think of it as your on-the-job safety net.

Low snacks: We all have our preferred low snack. Whether you typically reach for gummies or a Go-Go-Squeeze, be sure to also have some form of easy protein snack to keep you smooth sailing after that low
Back-up supplies: Extra pump sites, insulin pens, or CGM sensors if you’ll be away from home for long stretches
Skin Grip patches: So your devices stay stuck during a long shift, a sweaty warehouse job, outdoor gig work, or a run-in with the office doorframe
Water + electrolytes: Whether or not you’re on your feet, hydration is key

Pro Tip: Build two kits—one for everyday carry (like a backpack, car, or locker) and one that stays permanently at your workplace.

2. Advocate for What You Need

Whether you’re in a corporate office, behind a bar, or freelancing on your own schedule, it’s okay to speak up about your diabetes needs. Advocacy looks different depending on your job:

Traditional workplaces: In the U.S., you may be eligible for ADA accommodations or a formal plan with HR. These can include flexible breaks, the ability to snack in meetings, or access to a fridge for insulin.
Shift or gig work: You may not have HR, but you can still communicate with supervisors or teammates. This is especially true if you rely on your phone for your diabetes tech. While some shift work discourages phone use, communicating with your supervisor will set you up for success
Self-employed or freelance: Advocacy might look like building breaks into your schedule and setting boundaries with clients. You are your own HR department—so treat your needs as non-negotiable.

Pro Tip: You are empowered to disclose your diabetes if and when you want to. Some people share from day one, while others wait until after they’ve been hired or until it feels relevant. Both choices are valid - it’s about what works for you.

3. Stick with Confidence Through Long Shifts

Few things are more frustrating than your CGM peeling off halfway through a double shift or your pump site failing during a gig. Sweat, movement, and long hours can test adhesives, but that’s where Skin Grip patches come in.

Our patches are:

Sweatproof and waterproof (for kitchen shifts, delivery driving, or working outdoors)
Flexible for movement (whether you’re lifting, typing, or on stage performing)
Designed to last 10+ days (so you can work without worrying about peeling or lifting)

Pro Tip: For extra stikiness, use our Adhesive Barrier Wipes to up the ante on your grip without irritating your skin

4. Balance Work + Well-Being

It’s easy to put work first and diabetes second, but the truth is you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking small steps to care for yourself during the workday can make a big difference:

Drink water regularly - especially if your job is active.
Set reminders to check your CGM or pump if your role keeps you busy.
Take short breaks when needed, even if it’s just a quick step outside to reset.
Listen to your body - if something feels off, give yourself permission to pause.

Pro Tip: If your job keeps you moving nonstop, try pairing breaks with existing work rhythms (like after completing a task or route). This way, your health check becomes part of your flow, not an afterthought.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This

Diabetes is part of your life, and it comes with you to work. You don’t have to minimize it, apologize for it, or let it hold you back.

With a little preparation, the right tools, and the confidence to advocate for yourself, you can thrive in any job while living with diabetes. Want to learn more about your rights as a person with diabetes in the workplace? Check out this list of common accommodations from the American Diabetes Association.