Freedom at Work: How Technology Transforms Wellbeing for People Living with Type 1 Diabetes

Workplace wellbeing isn’t just about yoga classes or mental health apps - it’s about creating an environment where employees can thrive despite life’s challenges. For those living with chronic conditions like type 1 diabetes, the right technology can make all the difference. Richard, a civil servant and passionate guitarist, shares how switching to Omnipod® 5 transformed not only his health but his ability to focus on work and family.

The Hidden Strain of Chronic Conditions at Work

Type 1 diabetes is a lifelong condition that requires constant management. For many, this means multiple daily injections, frequent blood glucose checks, and the mental load of balancing food, insulin, and activity. Richard knows this reality all too well, diagnosed at just two years old he spent decades managing his diabetes with injections.

“Having lived with diabetes for around 37 years, I was accustomed to two daily Novomix injections. My significant needle phobia made even those challenging. When Novomix resistance forced me to switch to 7–9 daily injections in 2024, it became unbearable.”

This relentless routine doesn’t just affect physical health. It impacts mental wellbeing and workplace performance. Anxiety, fear of complications, and the constant need to plan can lead to stress and distraction, making it harder to stay focused and productive.

Technology as a Wellbeing Enabler

For Richard, everything changed when he discovered Omnipod® 5.

“Honestly, after 37 years of injections, I was incredibly nervous to switch. But it’s been the best decision I’ve ever made. The Omnipod 5 has lifted a huge burden, and I love how it automates so much, leaving me to focus mainly on boluses. I often forget I’m wearing it.”

By eliminating daily injections and automating insulin delivery, Omnipod® 5 dramatically reduced Richard’s daily stress. It wasn’t just about convenience – it was about freedom. Freedom to focus on work without constant interruptions. Freedom to engage fully in meetings without worrying about glucose spikes. Freedom to live without fear.

The Ripple Effect—Beyond the Individual

The benefits of better diabetes management extend far beyond the individual. Richard explains:

“I honestly have never felt as free from diabetes as I do now. It’s not only turned my life around, it’s allowed me to focus on my two little boys and focus more on them. I feel this has not just changed my life, but also taken away the fear of my diabetes going wrong and bothering others and my family.”

When employees feel supported and empowered, they bring their best self to work. Reduced stress and improved health lead to higher engagement, better productivity, and stronger morale across teams.

Richard and his family Richard and his family

What Employers Can Do

Supporting employees with chronic conditions isn’t just compassionate - it’s smart business. Here are three ways employers can make a difference:

  1. Offer flexible policies for medical appointments and glucose management.
  2. Provide coverage for advanced health technologies like Omnipod® and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs).
  3. Educate teams about invisible conditions to foster empathy and inclusion.

Richard’s advice for others living with type 1 diabetes is a powerful reminder:

“Type 1 diabetes isn’t a battle you lose or win—it’s a lifelong journey of learning, adjusting, and thriving.”

Closing Thoughts

Workplace wellbeing means understanding the invisible challenges employees face and empowering them with tools that make life easier. For Richard, Omnipod® 5 didn’t just improve his diabetes management, it gave him the freedom to thrive at work and at home.

This blog post is not a substitute for medical advice and/or services from a healthcare provider. This blog post is not to be relied upon in any way in connection with your personal health care related decisions and treatment.

Important Safety Information: The Omnipod® 5 Automated Insulin Delivery System is a single hormone insulin delivery system intended to deliver U-100 insulin subcutaneously for the management of type 1 diabetes in persons aged 2 and older requiring insulin. The Omnipod® 5 System is intended for single patient use. The Omnipod® 5 System is indicated for use with U-100 rapid acting insulin. Refer to the Omnipod® 5 Automated Insulin Delivery System User Guide for complete safety information including indications, contraindications, warnings, cautions, and instructions.

Warning: DO NOT start to use the Omnipod® 5 System or change settings without adequate training and guidance from a healthcare provider. Initiating and adjusting settings incorrectly can result in over-delivery or under-delivery of insulin, which could lead to hypoglycaemia or hyperglycaemia.

©2025 Insulet Corporation. All rights reserved.