Family & Friends
When you have a family member or friend who is diagnosed with mesothelioma, you likely have feelings of anger, sadness and disbelief. Maybe you want to help but don't know how. Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed with your new responsibilities. Now is the time to reach out to the mesothelioma patient to show love and caring.
Understanding Life As a Caregiver
While the patient is trying to dissect and digest the new information following a mesothelioma diagnosis, the caregiver is left to handle everything else, from finances to scheduling appointments.
With all of these new responsibilities and a frightening diagnosis, it's perfectly natural to feel overwhelmed. That's why the professional caregivers recommend that beginners use all the resources around them.
- Recommended Reading:
- The Challenges of Caregiving,
- Helping Your Loved One,
- Caring For Yourself,
Taking Time For Yourself
Caregivers are known to burn the candle at both ends -- they run from taking care of household chores to caring for their sick loved one.
This type of stress can lead to caregiver burnout, a very real problem for those who are overtired and overloaded with work. There are some practical ways that caregivers can reduce their stress.
- Recommended Reading:
- Reducing Your Stress,
- Getting Outside Help,
- Finding Meaning
Helping From Afar
In addition to the main caregivers and local resources, outside friends and family are a great source of help, not just to the mesothelioma patient but to the caregiver as well.
Caregivers need respite and help along the way, so it's important to remain vigilant about allowing for caregiver rest. There are several ways friends can help.
- Recommended Reading:
- Showing Your Support,
- Staying Connected
