Inflammatory bowel disease is incurable. This fact alone can be overwhelming for someone recently diagnosed with an IBD disease. But, that’s not just it. The inflammatory diseases also go through flare-ups and produce a range of uncomfortable symptoms, which not only affect their quality of life, but can also be physically, mentally, and emotionally overwhelming. One thing that can help people with IBD deal with the chronic disease is support.
If you have a friend or a family member living with IBD, your support can make a whole lot of difference. Here are some meaningful ways to support someone living with IBD:
1.Don’t Suggest Them “Cures” You Find on the Internet
Most often than not, when someone is diagnosed with IBD, their doctor tells them that the disease is incurable and what they can do to manage it effectively.
The last thing they want is people coming to them with cures and remedies they found on the internet.
You may be doing it out of love and care and to ease their suffering, but don’t believe on just anything you see on the internet. A doctor is the best source to learn anything about the disease and its management and your loved one must already be working with one.
2.Don’t Get Upset If They Cancel Plans
Is your friend or family member with IBD the one to cancel plans, most times? It can be annoying, but you need to understand that it could most likely be due to their disease. IBD can cause symptoms like stomach pain, cramping, and diarrhea, which often make it difficult for patients to go on with their daily lives especially when the disease is flared-up.
When you have a loved one living with IBD, be ready for cancelled plans. And try to remain cool every time it happens. Instead of getting annoyed, taking it personally, or blaming them for being irresponsible, understand their situation. Tell them that it’s not a problem and you meet later.
3.Plan a Night In
Another way to deal with a cancelled outing plan a night in. Ask your loved one if it’s good with them and what place will they more comfortable at; your house or their own. Order in some food, watch a good movie together, play some music, and perhaps have some heart-to-heart conversation as well.
4.Offer Help
Flare-ups may make it hard for IBD patients to perform their everyday chores. Stay in touch with during these difficult periods and offer help with various errands and home chores. You can do grocery shopping for them, pick up their prescription, cook them food, and/or do their laundry.
5.Be There, Always
IBD can be frustrating. Empathize with your friend or family member and be available whenever they need you. Tell them that you’re there for them. Whether they need your help in some chores or just need someone to talk to, you’re always there. Show them that you care. It makes a huge difference.
Having a loved one living with a chronic, incurable disease is painful and can make you feel helpless. However, there are various ways you can offer support to them. The ones discussed above are some of the basic ways you can lend support to someone living with IBD. They may seem simple, but will mean a lot for your loved one.
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