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You know what they say: “Mistakes happen.” You know what else they say: “Learn from your mistakes.” This is especially important when it comes to managing your diabetes — especially just after you’re first diagnosed, as some mistakes can be more serious than others. Luckily, we’ve got your back. Here a few common teachable moments we hope you won’t experience as you’re learning to manage your diabetes — and the lessons you can take away from them to care for your condition like a pro.

Management Mistake: Missing medication

Ever been running late, flying out the door, car keys and coffee mug in hand, only to realize that you’ve forgotten to take your medication ... yet again? Forgetfulness strikes the best of us, often with irritating frequency. When you have diabetes and your health depends on your daily dosages, the struggle is real — and the stakes are high. Skipped doses or going off schedule can cause a dangerous spike in blood glucose levels.

Mistake Managed!

An easy, scatterbrain-proof way to remember medication is to put it right next to something else you use every morning. Whether that’s your toothbrush or the coffee pot, this reminder will make missing dosages next to impossible. And once you start visually associating your meds with your morning routine, taking your medication will fit seamlessly into your schedule. Or simply leave the remembering to your smartphone. Grace Tom, RN, a nurse specializing in diabetes care at Alta Bates Medical Center in Berkeley, CA, reports that the patients who take their medication most consistently are those who use alarms or reminders.

Published on April 20, 2015.

--By Katie Lewin. Katie is a Bay-area based health and lifestyle writer.