About this topic
When told that a loved one has a serious or terminal illness, you may have many strong feelings. Feelings of shock, anger, sadness, doubt, and helplessness are all normal feelings to have. You need to let yourself have these feelings to help you deal with the news. But, it is also vital to stay stable and strong for the loved one facing the illness. ‚
General
What You Can Do to Cope ‚
- Try to be honest about the illness. Talk about your feelings, fears, and concerns with friends, family, or doctors.
- Join a support group to get to know other people dealing with a loved one with the same illness.
- Take care of yourself. Eat right, workout, and do activities that you enjoy or help you relax. Try reading, listening to music, or playing sports. This will help you give the best support and care to your ill loved one.
- Get help from other family members and friends.
- Learn about the illness and get involved in the care of your loved one. Talk to doctors and caregivers. Look for books, programs, or other aids to help you learn about the illness.
- Draw comfort in your faith. Hold on to spiritual activities that can help you. These may include praying, meditating, or talking to a religious leader.
How Can I Help My Loved One ‚
- Offer to do simple things like making meals or doing the grocery shopping.
- Help with dressing changes, home treatments, or bathing.
- Help with any medical devices or drugs that may be needed.
- Help as needed with driving to the doctors office or making sure physical, occupational, or speech therapies happen.
- Try to make things as normal as you can. Let your loved one do simple duties and light work. This way, your loved one may feel less of a burden and more helpful too. Ask the doctor about the right amount of activity for your loved one.
- Keep in touch with your loved one. Encourage your loved one to share any needs openly and easily.
- A low mood is a common reaction to a loved one's serious illness. Try not to talk about this with your loved one. Talk to a friend, family member, or doctor instead.
Where can I learn more?
American Psychological Association ‚
http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/help-chronic.aspx ‚
Helpguide.org ‚
http://www.helpguide.org/harvard/dealing_serious_illness.htm ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚