Tips on Helping Someone Understand Your Condition
Provide them with resources!
Whatever resources you have that can help you explain, Show It!
Websites, links, articles, books, pamphlets and social media.
Keep in mind everyone is busy and has their own schedules, so make it easy for them by providing the material and picking things that best describe your condition and that are easy to understand.
Make it as simple as possible for them so they don’t have to do so much research themselves.
Don’t give them an Excuse!
Bring that person to your appointment
Not only is it comforting in general to have someone with you at an appointment it’s also informational too.
Allowing someone to experience one of your appointments allows them to learn in real time and see things from your point of view.
It’s a perfect opportunity for them to be involved and ask questions that they might have themselves.
Ask a buddy to help you explain
Explaining yourself and the background of your condition can be scary, complicated and confusing. Sometimes having someone that you trust, that knows your condition the best, can help explain with you what you’re trying to relay. Having another person standing beside you that can advocate can also help you be taken more seriously.
Be honest and talk about it
The more real you are and honest about your condition the more people will listen and understand.
Be Transparent. Don’t hide anything if you don’t have to.
Help them understand this is your reality.
Be upfront about your limitations and boundaries.
Write them a letter
Sometimes the best method is to go old school with a handwritten letter.
If sitting someone down has failed, possibly writing your thoughts out may be a better form of delivery.
It makes it more personal too.
Speak Up!
If someone says something that’s hurtful or their actions seem insensitive, then tell them that.
Don’t let them get away with it, because they most likely don’t know they are causing harm.
Most people don’t even know the impact of what they are saying and how their words can affect a person.
Also, don’t expect someone to know how to help you. Be honest, tell them what you truly need and be specific. They may not know how to help you or where to begin, so you may have to help initiate the plan.
