As the holidays are upon us, here are some tips to supporting a friend or family member who is dealing with a chronic condition:
- Ask about his or her experience. Each person has a unique set of symptoms (even within a single disease) and each person deals with these symptoms in a unique matter. It can be a gift when someone cares to check in and ask what is going on.
- Unless otherwise specified, keep inviting them. Although you might hear the answer ‘no’ a lot of the time, most people want to be included in plans and have the option of joining in when they are able.
- Be patient with last minute cancellations. For many with ongoing health issues, there can be significant fluctuations in symptoms and in energy. When you have received a positive response to an invitation that later becomes a cancellation, try to be patient and recognize that the person would rather be out with you than at home but sometimes health issues just don’t cooperate.
Happy Holidays!
