Being There for a Loved One with Lymphoma

Loved ones tend to focus on practical and physical effects of lymphoma when helping out. Doing chores, making sure their finances are in order, making sure their children and dependents are taken care of. These things are very important, but they aren’t the only thing you should be worried about. The truth is, the emotional tolls are often the most significant aspect of being diagnosed with lymphoma. Diagnoses often come with huge spikes in stress related to dealing with the disease, figuring out how to live around it, etc. There is also a depression that often accompanies the loss of physical endurance and freedom.

So what can you do to help any of that? It's actually quite simple, you just have to be there. A text, a phone call, a letter. As long as they know you are thinking about them, they will have something to take their mind off of their condition (for at least a few moments). If you live closer you should also try and visit and even take them places. Taking them to a movie, concert, farmer's market, or really anywhere can raise their spirits and lets them know you care about them.

Patients also tend to need someone to talk to or a shoulder to cry on. Since they are under so much stress they often need someone to vent to. Just sitting there and listening to them can relieve some stress and make them feel a tiny bit better. You can also find certain ways to reduce their stress levels, like taking care of a few of their responsibilities. Overall, the most important thing is that they know you are there for them. Them having someone that they can count on is super important.