Is your loved one suffering from a chronic illness? Does it break your heart to see him suffer from pain? Are you interested in eliminating his stress and anxiety? If you answered yes to all these, then it is time for you to consider reading the rest of this article. For today’s write up, we are going to focus on the different ways on how you can help a loved one with a chronic illness.
Before you proceed, you need to consider the reality that your loved one may change his personality or attitude because of the illness. Remind yourself that he is suffering from excruciating pain and there are only baby steps available for him to make things right. Because of this, you must see to it that he remains positive despite the adversities. Below are some of the top techniques that you must-do if you want to handle a loved one who is suffering from a chronic illness:
Bridget Levy, LCPC said “You need to know what you like and dislike, what you’re comfortable with versus what scares you, and how you want to be treated in given situations.”
Learn About The Illness
As much as possible, find time to educate yourself about the medical condition of the other person. Accompany him in the medical checkup so that you can also have a one-on-one conversation with his physician. Do not forget to inquire about the signs and symptoms of the medical condition. Keep yourself informed at all times because it can help you think of better ways on how you can deal with the other person.
Be Available At All Times
Now is the time of your loved one’s life that he needs you the most. As such, you must make him feel that you are available at all times. You must give him a guarantee that you will be around whenever he needs help or assistance. Aside from this, it is also essential for you to give him comforting words so that he will start to feel better. Be ready whenever he needs to discuss his frustrations and problems. Be his source of strength and energy.
Andrea Kane Frank, MS, LCPC, CAPP said “It’s great to surprise someone with appreciation or to just say hello.”
Keep Your Cool
Always put in mind that the way you act around your loved one has a lot of effect on his mindset. Because of this, it is ideal if you will make an effort to remain calm and cool about his sickness. Stop making a big fuss or deal out of it as it can only increase his stress levels. You can show your care and affection to the other person but avoid overdoing it. Otherwise, you will end up offending him or making him feel that he is worthless. For sure, you do not want him to experience self-pity. As such, the right thing to do is to cheer him up every chance that you can get. Avoid showing him that you are sad or problematic because of his condition. Be a ray of sunshine that will make him smile every now and then.
Take note of the tips and techniques mentioned above and be prepared to experience better days with your loved ones. Do not let his chronic illness make you grow apart from each other.
Deborah Serani, PsyD said “What you say can have a powerful impact on your loved one.”