Take an active role in your care

When you take an active role in your care, you'll help put your family at ease. In time, they will get used to your routines and see that you can take care of yourself.

Talk openly with your family

If you show them that you are comfortable talking about your condition, they will probably open up and talk, too. Talking honestly about your needs and fears is a great way to get support from your family. Encourage your family to talk about their feelings and to tell you what they need from you. If you listen to your family, you are showing them that you support them, too. At first, it may seem like the only thing everyone talks about is your illness, but soon it will be just one more part of your family's life.

From Young People and Chronic Illness: True Stories, Help, and Hope by Kelly Huegel. ©1998 Free Spirit Publishing, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

[More]