Things to say to someone with a chronic illness (or disability) to show your support!
- Ash
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
I was talking with my therapist today about how I wish sometimes when you told people what you were going through, regarding health issues like chronic illness or disabilities, how they would just say something like "that sucks, I'm here for you" rather than making it about them or avoiding it by telling you stuff like "you'll be fine" or "don't worry about it". It gets really frustrating, and I get that not everyone will understand, and I'm not asking you to, but sometimes a little bit of emotional support would help - the smallest things go a long way. It doesn't have to be very much. Anyway, I've created this blog post for things to say to someone with a chronic illness (or disability) to show your support.
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Things to say to someone with a chronic illness (or disability) to show your support!
I care and I'm here for you.
I believe you.
Could I bring you something to eat?
Is there a job around the house you need extra support/help with? Even if they don't answer or can't think of anything in fear of being a burden, you can always say "it's okay, I'll ask again another time".
Don't feel bad if you need to cancel plans at the last minute.
If you tell someone they look good, follow it up with "but how are you really feeling?"
I hope today is a low symptom day.
I just wanted to check up on you.
It must be difficult being sick and/or in pain.
I'm sorry this is happening (or any variation of that).
Your feelings are valid.
I'm listening.
I'm here for you if you ever want to talk.
How can I support you right now?
Would you like me to just listen, or are you looking for my input?
That sounds really hard.
I haven't heard of that condition. I will research it so I can understand what you're going through better.
I hope you're as well as possible.
Things to avoid in general are unsolicited medical advice, being a problem solver, saying "get well soon/feel better", talking about their weight or any part of their appearance they can't change, saying things like "you're too young to have X", pressuring them to do more than they can, making them feel guilty for cancelling plans, and comparing their situation to yours.
Hope this helps!
Ash x
