The bond between someone who has Lyme and their loved one is important. We share details about our health to receive support and build trust, and you help to validate our experiences. What and how we share may change, but one thing remains constant: We deeply value your help as supporters, and you play an incredibly significant role in our healing journey.
Our topic for June is sharing. Here are five tips for supporters to approach sharing in helpful and productive ways.
Ask for Permission—As patients, we are selective about whom we share details of our health and experiences. Honor us by keeping this information to yourself unless you ask us for permission and are given explicit consent to share it with others.
Listen—By listening actively and staying engaged as we share, you show that you believe in and validate our experiences. You may also learn more about what it is like for us to navigate Lyme and tick-borne diseases.
Don’t Share Unsolicited Advice—At times, you may want to help a loved one by providing unsolicited advice about our health, symptoms, or treatment. However, please do not do this. We often experience this as unhelpful, even if intentions are genuine. Instead, start by asking us if we are open to receiving advice. If we consent, then share your perspective.
Ask Us What We Need—When you ask how you can help, we may share some details about how you could assist, including providing emotional, physical, communication, and other kinds of support.
Engage in Community Support—As supporters, you may value receiving support from a welcoming community that understands what it’s like to navigate tick-borne disease with a loved one. It’s important to know that you are not in this alone.
Generation Lyme provides monthly Meet-Ups for supporters and parents, which are fantastic opportunities to discuss sharing with a supportive community.
To RSVP for the Supporters Meet-Up or Parents Meet-Up, tap the link below!