Most of us know people who suffer from critical illnesses in our midst. Most of us as we age struggle with some ailments too. How can we be helpful, yet not patronizing to our friends who suffer? What can we do?
The most difficult situations in this regard are people who don't help themselves; people who continue down paths of self-harm. It's very difficult to help people like this since they usually don't embrace the struggle and seek the kinds of supports they need. These people may blame or harm others instead of dealing with their own challenges in positive ways.
The easiest people to support in this regard are people that tackle their challenges with a positive attitude accepting the support that they need. These people are good at educating others about what they need, what they can do, and what they cannot do. With these people, it's important to be a good listener who responds positively to their friends or family member's needs.
Then there are those who suffer but are unaware of their challenge--they move ahead as if there are no problems, but their behaviors demonstrate challenging behaviors or struggles.
I'm thinking about how I can be a good friend to the great variety of people I know and love. Onward.
