How to Be in a Relationship with a Chronically Ill Person

Are you ready for this one! It's tough! Being in a relationship with a person that has a chronic illness can put a burden on a relationship, especially if you know the person can end up dying from the disease. I have listed 10 things you can do to help you be in a relationship with a chronically ill person.

1. Don't expect them to be or act the same post-treatment/diagnosis.

After your partner has gone through a traumatic experience in finding out that they are sick, don't' expect them to act the same, treatment such as medications and medical procedures may have affected their ability to do certain things. This can cause frustration if you're not careful because even though they are getting help and treatment, doesn't mean they are emotionally and physically well.

2. Communicate your feelings.

Communicate any good and bad feelings you may have with your partner. It's okay to have those hard conversations, because let's face it, being in a relationship is hard work, especially if someone is sick. It's important to express all of your feelings, because leaving them piled up inside will only cause more frustration and confusion in the relationship.

3. Get counseling.

Talking to a professional is always helpful, because it allows a third party to intervene, but on a professional level and who is not choosing sides. A mediator can help you understand your partners perspective and vice versa.

4. Love unconditionally.

This is a big one! In our society, this is really hard because we are not used to taking the good with the bad. We sometimes think that person we fell in love with will always be the same and it's hard to believe that they will change, but change is apart of life good and bad, so it's vital that we love our significant other unconditionally in the midst of their health challenges.

5. Spend more time together.

Spending time together can really help you build your relationship, and embrace each other during a difficult time. Spending time with each other can build a new level of trust and security, within the relationship. It's important to do this to build long-lasting memories and a close bond.

6. Be drama-free.

Life is stressful already and the last thing a relationship needs is more drama. Drama can potentially cause more stress and frustration in the relationship, and this should be avoided at all cost. Rather it's from family, work, or other areas in life, drama should be eliminated from the relationship if at all possible.

7. Set goals.

Even though your relationship is being tested, it doesn't mean that you can't set goals and expectations for the future. It will keep your mind focused on positive things to come and help you to cope with the illness.

8. Be realistic.

There are some things your partner can't do, and that's okay! Be flexible and understanding, every day is not going to be the same. Have realistic expectations, and do things at a comfortable pace, no need to stress over things you can't control.

9. Understanding

It's important to understand the sickness your partner has, and get as much information about it, so you can help them cope with the side effects of medication and so forth. This can help you and your partner deal with the illness more effectively.

10. Have fun!

Life is too short not to have fun! Enjoy each other's company, and see the brighter side. Even though life presented you with an unexpected health issue doesn't mean you still can't enjoy your life.