Some tips to help family and friends cope with a loved one's
stroke:
- Ask the doctor questions if you accompany your loved one to
appointments. Talk with the patient before the appointment about
the questions you will ask and be sensitive when asking questions,
especially those questions to which the patient may not want to
hear the answer.
- Be prepared for changes in your loved one's behavior and mood.
Medications, discomforts, and stress can cause your loved one to
become depressed or angry.
- Encourage your loved one to be active and independent, as much
as possible, to help him or her regain a sense of self-reliance and
confidence.
- Be realistic about your own needs. If you take care of your
needs, it may be easier to meet the needs of your loved one.
- Be sure you are sleeping enough, eating properly, and taking
some time off for yourself. It is hard to offer much help when you
are exhausted.
- Don't hesitate to ask other family members and friends for
help. They may appreciate the opportunity to help.
- Keep a positive attitude.
- Accept that there are events you cannot control.
- Be assertive instead of aggressive. Assert your feelings,
opinions, or beliefs instead of becoming angry, combative, or
passive.
- Learn how to manage stress. Try a variety of relaxation
techniques to help you manage stress.
- Exercise regularly. Your body can fight stress better when you
are physically fit.
- Eat well-balanced meals.
- Don't rely on alcohol or drugs to reduce stress.
- Use the resource of support groups. Talking with people who are
in similar situations can help you to feel that you are not
alone.