Looking after a partner that is ill - It's tough, no doubt about it.
But what often gets overlooked is the toll it takes on the person's partner, who becomes the caregiver. It's a silent struggle not always noticed by those outside the immediate circle. You see, while others might rally around someone with a more visible illness, chronic conditions often get sidelined, leaving couples to navigate this challenging journey on their own. People might not realize the seriousness of some health issues.
Let's start with the person dealing with the illness. It's a daily battle, not just with the physical symptoms but with a whirlwind of emotions, too. They can feel frustrated, scared, and alone while trying to keep up a facade of normalcy. It's exhausting. And for the partner-turned-caregiver, it's a whole new world of responsibilities. Suddenly, they're thrust into a role they never signed up for, juggling care duties while trying to keep their sanity intact. Quite often, friends and neighbours fall away. People don't always know what to say or how to help. The couple dealing with the illness can feel rejected and abandoned. Plans they had for the future are gone by the wayside. Family and friends are travelling while they are stuck at home. Travelling can be too hard when sick or when you have mobility issues. Travel insurance won't cover pre-existing health conditions. All of this contributes to symptoms of burden and fatigue, leaving people with depression and a lot of anxiety about the future, especially if those who are sick have chronic but progressive illnesses.
What makes it even more challenging is the sense of isolation that comes with chronic illness. Unlike more visible conditions, the struggles of living with something like Fibromyalgia or Crohn's disease often fly under the radar. So, while others might shower sympathy on someone with a broken leg, they might not even realize the daily battles faced by those dealing with illnesses such as Parkinson's, ALS, MS, MSA, and CBS. It's a lonely road that can strain even the most robust relationships.
But here's the thing: seeking help can make all the difference. Counselling isn't just for couples on the brink of collapse; it's for anyone who needs a safe space to unload their burdens. By discussing their issues with a professional, couples can learn to cope better, communicate more effectively, and strengthen their bond. And individual counselling? How does that help? It allows each partner to vent, process their feelings, and find much-needed solace by sharing what is going on in their lives and exploring better-coping strategies for more resilience in the face of immense suffering and loss of what was. People wish for better days of the past when there was fun and good health. Now, personalities may have changed, and disillusionment has crept in, especially due to sickness.
So, yes, living with a chronic illness as a couple is tough. There's no sugar-coating it. But with the proper support and a lot of love, it's a journey that can be navigated with grace and resilience. Because isn't that what it's all about? Facing life's challenges together, hand in hand, coming out stronger on the other side, and letting others in to help and support you along the way.