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Relationship and Expectation Adjustments
Chronic Pain | Last Active: Nov 17, 2020 | Replies (37)Comment receiving replies
I'd like to build on @artscaping's post. Great point about how illness can make others feel: helpless, disappointment, a sense of loss, anger, resentment that established roles have to change.
Not being able to depend on family members in times of illness or even when you might be the main caregiver, where does one find the support they need? Where have you found compassion, kindness and practical help to manage chronic conditions that have changed life as it once was? What tips do you have for fellow members?
Replies to "I'd like to build on @artscaping's post. Great point about how illness can make others feel:..."
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Hi Colleen,
I suggested some tips:
1.Step up, explain need for expectations to be adjusted to our limitations
2. Reach out for help; let our needs be known
3. Try not to personalize loved one's behavior/hurtful words & actions
4. Try not to resent their lack of insight, empathy and compassion that can be born out of their lack of insight /understanding of our circumstances
5. Forgive and be patient (no pun!)
These things can be extremely difficult in the midst of suffering and should only have to be done once if we're able to have a receptive and caring audience who has the brain capacity to comprehend our information.
We can't hold people accountable to empathize with what we're experiencing if they haven't experienced it themselves however, our loved ones can and should be held accountable to hear us and have compassion and care about the contributions they can make toward our well-being.
These are my thoughts and feelings.
Warmest everything to each one of you, Sunnyflower @artscaping @lorirenee1 @jesfactsmon