Managing a chronic illness can be very difficult to manage and it can often feel like you must carry the burden alone. However, loved ones can provide much needed assistance. This could include medication reminders or assistance in monitoring blood pressure readings.
Family Support Networks
Having a supportive family can make life easier in many ways. But there are two things we will focus on today that revolve around communication. First, it is important that you can talk openly about your chronic illness with your family. Many do not know the difficulties and accommodations that need to be made with specific chronic illness. While it’s important for your family and friends to understand how you are feeling and what you’re experiencing, it should not always be the center of conversation. Your illness does not have to define you.
Second, everyone is different in how they might want to be supported with chronic illness. You may simply want someone to listen or you may want to help them in a practical way. In order to help family members understand what kind of help you need, take the time sit down with them to communicate clearly what they can do for your situation. They should only meet the needs that you're seeking.
Do Not Isolate
Don't feel isolated during this time. It is easy to believe that no one understands what you are going through. You may not want to be a bother to your family members and would rather handle your condition alone. Studies show that being around people who understand what you are going through helps you reach your health goals faster.
The Benefits
The California Healthcare Foundation (CHF) has studies that prove these health benefits of loved ones helping you manage your chronic illness:
Better glycemic control
Better blood pressure control
Fewer cardiac events
Better joint function and less inflammation
Better self-management behavior
Increased self-efficacy
Decreased depressive symptoms
Your loved ones are not a hinderance to helping you have successful outcomes. You are not a bother to them when you need accommodations. They can play a huge part in your health journey if you allow them to.
In conclusion, managing chronic illness often means juggling many different responsibilities. And while it may seem impossible to manage all those tasks and juggle everything, you can – with the help of your loved ones!
Tria Health Can Help
Tria Health is a no cost benefit available through select members’ health plans. Tria Health’s Pharmacy Advocate Program offers one-on-one, private consultations with a Tria Health Pharmacist. During your consultation, your pharmacist will review all your current medications, including vitamins and supplements. Tria Health will assist you in identifying any possible drug interactions, possible medications you could discontinue, and savings opportunities!
Tria Health patients can grant their caregivers or family members access to their portal accounts and/or text alerts. It can be useful to have a family member connected with your blood sugar/pressure readings to help you manage your health together. Your pharmacist will work with you and your doctor(s) to ensure the intended outcomes from your medications are being received.
Questions?
Contact the Tria Health Desk at 1.888.799.8742
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