Relationships are built on communication, patience, and mutual support. And when chronic pain and fatigue are part of everyday life, these factors are especially crucial to keep your relationship with your partner healthy.
If you want to be supportive and encouraging but don’t know where to start, we’re here to help. Here are a few practical ways to better support someone with a chronic illness – so you can help those you love.

Have patience.

 

When you’re in a relationship with someone that struggles with any one of these conditions, the most important thing you can do is to be patient.

 

Have patience because there will be times when your partner will have what you might consider a few “normal” days. But remember that these days of normalcy are not “normal.” Use these days to your advantage, but don’t pressure your partner to over-exert themselves.

Make life comfortable.

 

Do your best to make your partner feel as comfortable as possible. Sit down and figure out what they can and feel comfortable being responsible for. Discuss how you can split responsibilities and have a plan “B” ready for when they don’t feel well and are unable to help you.

Be understanding.

 

Know that when your loved ones complain, it’s not because they’re whining, but because their pain level is probably through the roof.

 

People generally suck up the minor to moderate pain so that their partner doesn’t have to go through any trouble. So when your partner finally starts to complain, pay attention and offer a helping hand.

 

Keep in mind that chronic illness affects everyone differently, and it is important for you to be mindful of that. Adjust to each situation accordingly to decide how to best support them.

 

Now that you’ve read our tips, do you have questions? Any words of advice to add? Comment below and let’s talk about it.

References:
https://themighty.com/2018/07/ways-to-support-ill-partner/

https://www.healthline.com/health/chronic-illness-partner-support#2