{"id":1271,"date":"2023-08-26T16:53:59","date_gmt":"2023-08-26T15:53:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/southdevoncouplestherapy.com\/?p=1271"},"modified":"2023-08-26T17:20:47","modified_gmt":"2023-08-26T16:20:47","slug":"how-to-deal-with-chronic-illness-as-a-couple","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/southdevoncouplestherapy.com\/how-to-deal-with-chronic-illness-as-a-couple\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Deal With Chronic Illness as a Couple"},"content":{"rendered":"

In our journey together, we’ve navigated a myriad of topics, but today, let’s take a moment to delve into a topic that can often be a bit of a tough cookie \u2014dealing with chronic illness as a couple.<\/p>\n

Now, we all know life’s no picnic, right?
\n<\/p>\n

You don\u2019t need me to tell you that.<\/p>\n

But when chronic illness throws a spanner in the works, it can feel like you’re trying to row upstream without a paddle. It’s tough, I get it. But the key question is, how do we deal with it without letting it pull our relationship into turbulent waters?<\/p>\n

A 2017 study in PEC (Patient Education and Counselling) found that couples who work as a team in managing a chronic illness show increased resilience and relationship satisfaction. <\/p>\n

Sounds good, doesn’t it? <\/p>\n

Now, here’s how you can make this happen.<\/p>\n

Embrace HOK Communication<\/strong><\/p>\n

First things first, let’s talk about talking. <\/p>\n

In the face of illness, silence is not golden \u2014it’s downright dangerous. <\/p>\n

As a couple, you need to be Honest, Open and Kind<\/a>. It can be hard to show vulnerability, but it’s an absolute must. The health issue is in the room; ignoring it won’t make it disappear, but addressing it is likely to bring the two of you closer.<\/p>\n

Educate Yourselves<\/strong><\/p>\n

Know your enemy. <\/p>\n

Dive into research. Familiarise yourself with the illness. Understand its implications, its management. Knowledge not only gives you power but can alleviate fear and uncertainty. <\/p>\n

Work as a Team<\/strong><\/p>\n

Remember, it’s not: <\/p>\n

\u201cYou vs. your partner\u201d.<\/em><\/p>\n

It\u2019s:<\/p>\n

\u201cBoth of you vs. the illness”. <\/em><\/p>\n

This is a team event so share the responsibilities. Seek professional help when needed. Cooperate. Collaborate. Stand together, because that’s what will get you through.<\/p>\n

Foster Emotional Resilience<\/strong><\/p>\n

Let’s dig a bit deeper on this one. <\/p>\n

Chronic illness doesn’t just have physical effects, does it? It can be a real emotional rollercoaster too. But remember, you’re in this together and couples who address their emotional responses to chronic illness together have better coping mechanisms.<\/p>\n

So – and this is especially true if you\u2019re a man of a certain age, forget trying to act like Clint Eastwood in one of his: I\u2019m self contained, I don\u2019t need nothing or no-one roles. <\/p>\n

In spite of what you might have heard\u2026<\/p>\n

\u2026Research strongly suggests we\u2019re braver and more resilient when we know we the support and back up of our partner.<\/p>\n

So, how do you do that? <\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Acknowledge your feelings<\/strong> \u2014fear, frustration, sadness\u2014 they’re all perfectly normal. Don’t bottle them up, let them out. <\/li>\n
  2. Focus on the positive<\/strong> – Look for the silver linings. Maybe the illness brought you closer or made you realise what really matters in life. <\/li>\n
  3. Practice mindfulness<\/strong> – Now don\u2019t get me twisted. Yeah, it’s a buzzword, I know, but it’s not mumbo jumbo \u2014it’s science. Mindfulness: Touching the present moment deeply, can help manage stress and improve emotional health. So take deep breaths. Focus on what you can see, hear, feel in this moment. Or in other words\u2026Be here, now.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Remember, it’s okay to feel whatever you feel and it’s okay to seek help when the emotional burden gets too heavy. <\/p>\n

    The journey of chronic illness is a physical, emotional, mental and for some people spiritual one. By addressing all facets of what makes you human, you can truly work towards holistic wellness.<\/p>\n

    Practice Self-care<\/strong><\/p>\n

    Care for your partner, yes, but don’t forget to care for yourself. You can’t pour from an empty cup, can you? <\/p>\n

    It\u2019s important you take care of:<\/p>\n