Experts reveal 7 key tips for festival attendees managing chronic conditions

While festivals are a way great way to escape the daily routine, nine in ten living with chronic conditions can find the experience stressful.

According to recent research, the average festival-goer walks more than 11,000 steps and watches seven bands per day, but gets only five hours of sleep each night. A typical day also involves taking 20 photos, making three to four trips to food and drink stalls, and losing track of friends-usually a group of three-at least twice a day.

Whilst some of the top moments include, the “electric atmosphere,” and the chance to escape daily routines as top festival highlights, downsides can be lack of opportunities to rest or sit down, large crowds, and long queues. This can be particularly stressful for those living with chronic conditions.

The research, commissioned by healthcare company Abbott, revealed that a staggering 88 per cent of those with a chronic illness have experienced stress at a festival because of their condition.

The primary causes include a shortage of places to sit and rest, concerns about staying hydrated, and the continuous mental burden of managing their health.

Consequently, one in five festival fans surveyed said they want more support for their health and wellbeing at events, with calls for dedicated help for specific medical conditions.

Vanessa Haydock, a diabetic health coach and Abbott ambassador who herself lives with Type 1 diabetes, is well-versed in the challenges that festivals can pose.

“Festivals can be a perfect time to let your hair down and get away from your daily routine, but it’s important to look out for yourself and for each other.” she said.

“Make sure you and your friends speak in advance about what to do in certain situations – such as getting lost, overwhelmed, or dehydrated. Being open about your needs helps everyone feel more confident and connected. And don’t be afraid to prioritise your health – managing any condition in public is nothing to be embarrassed about.”

Vanessa always comes prepared, packing backup snacks, medical supplies, and her continuous glucose monitor. She even shares her glucose levels with friends using an app, so they can support her if needed.

Consultant nurse and festival medical services lead Lesley Mills agrees that preparation is key. “When living with Type 2 Diabetes, there’s much to think about when attending festivals – but it should not stop you from having the best time.

“There are many things you can do so that you don’t have to give up something you love, just because you’re living with a chronic condition – preparation is key.”

The study revealed that a whopping 65 per cent of those with chronic conditions have had to cut short their festival experience at least once due to health worries.

For 16 per cent they now attend fewer festivals than before their diagnosis, and nearly one in ten have stopped going altogether.

LESLEY & VANESSA’S TOP TIPS TO STAY SAFE AND HEALTHY:

1. Don’t shy away from putting your health first – managing any condition in public is nothing to be ashamed of.
2. Be assertive when it comes to checking your glucose levels or taking medication as required, always remembering that your health takes precedence.
3. Be proactive by reaching out to festival organisers beforehand to disclose your condition and seek permission to bring in essential snacks, drinks, and medication – a letter from your healthcare professional or diabetes team can help facilitate this process
4. Keep yourself hydrated, avoid lengthy intervals between meals, and tune into your body’s needs – festivals can be draining, but remember, they’re a marathon, not a sprint, and there’s no shame in taking a breather whenever necessary.
5. It’s common to see people clocking up to 30,000 steps – so, ramp up your activity levels in advance and pace yourself once you’re on the ground.
6. Certain technology can really help you to manage your condition in a busy, unpredictable environment – for example, if you have diabetes, some devices allow you to monitor your glucose levels quickly and discreetly, with real-time data and alerts for highs and lows.
7. Last but not least, let your friends know how to help you in any of these situations – they want to help you, they just need to know how.