Supporting Your Loved One(s)
If your loved one has Fibromyalgia it is difficult for you to understand exactly what they are going through unless you have experienced, it yourself.
They will require much more time to sleep and rest than you and may not feel like going out. They may also struggle to work, do household chores and some days even shower or eat.
Having a supportive Spouse or Significant Other makes all the difference.
Below are some ways you can help them that will mean the World to them:
- When they are having a breakdown, hold them, let them cry and know you are there for them.
- Learn as much as you can about Fibro. Be patient. You might not understand what it’s like but being empathetic and listening to your Partner or Spouse is so important. Unconditional love.
- Avoid making them feel guilty. Give reassurance and love. Lie in bed and hold them, tell them you’re in it for the long haul. And mean it!
- Believe them first, be supportive second, be kind at all times third and pull your weight in the relationship in a practical way. They didn’t plan this any more than you did, you’re both in this thing together, so help both of you to make the most of the journey. The more support they have the sooner they will find their own level of fitness and health, but it takes quite some time, and you will need to stand by them and lessen their physical and emotional load as much as you possibly can.
- Show Love and don’t ask too many questions in a flare up times.
- Run them a nice warm bath and if needed wash their hair, help them out, dry and brush their hair. Then just listening would be nice.
- Be understanding and patient. Share the household chores, be supportive when others question their condition, remember that this condition is no one’s fault or punishment to you. Above all, never stop loving the afflicted person.
- Do exactly what you would want your loved one to do for you if the roles were reversed. Above all, be kind, loving, patient and fun.
- Make sure you don’t just hear what they are saying but you actually listen!
- Ask often about their pain level, bring them small things that help-ice packs, meds, drinks, heating pad. Understand their struggles.
- Never say ‘you’ are lazy
- Never cut them down for not feeling good or not being able to do the things they once could do. Be supportive even if you don’t understand it all.
- Keep them out of stressful situations. Allow them to rest when they need too.
- Make sure they understand that although they cannot function as before they are still a valued member of the family and that they are not a burden.
- Ask your Spouse or Partner what they would like from you and let them know that you want to help in any way you can. They may prefer as much independence as possible don’t just assume they want help.
We hope this gives you a few ideas of how you can offer your support, love and understanding.