How to talk about your condition, so that everyone gets the support they need
Your family may be dealing with their own worries
There are many understandable and fair reasons why you may not want to talk about your condition, but you have probably realised that your family is also looking for answers. Most families are eager to do whatever they can to help you. But they also may be experiencing their own feelings of fear, helplessness, confusion or sadness. In so many ways, your family’s shock and potentially unpredictable reactions could even mirror the way you felt when you got the news.Involving your family
Who should you tell about your diagnosis? Start by deciding whom you want to tell and what you hope to get from them in terms of support.Here are a few things to consider as you prepare to have these conversations:
- Choose a quiet, comfortable time and place.
- Start with the good news: DVT is treatable and you have a plan.
- Be honest about the seriousness of the disease, but try to not scare them.
- Have realistic expectations. People may react strongly or not know how to be supportive just yet.
- Be sure to pause and let the other person ask questions.
- Be specific about how you are feeling and let them know how they can be supportive.
- Share resources with them, from websites to doctor contact details and printouts, so they can find out more on their own.
- If people offer help, by giving them a role, they will feel like they are making a difference, and you might get some relief too.
- Consider asking someone to join you for your doctor’s visits. They can help you keep track of all the details and even ask questions themselves.
Your concern about your friends’ and family’s feelings is understandable, but don’t forget to put yourself and your emotional needs first. For more information about how to get the support you need, read this.
UK/IE/MAT- 72249. April 2024