You’ve experienced the symptoms, seen the doctor, and gotten a diagnosis. But now it’s time to tell your family. This. Is. Tough. Whether you’re talking to your parents or your partner, know that your family members love you and want to help. This is a big discussion and it’s best to be prepared:
- Invite them to the meeting. This may sound strange, but you want everyone to be focused on the conversation at hand. If you try to squeeze it in during a commercial break or en route to dinner, your family won’t be focused. You’re taking your health seriously and being intentional about telling your family shows your family that this is a big deal. Your invitation can be a simple “when is a good time to talk about something important?"
- Have information about the diagnosis on hand. There is a good chance that your family members don’t know very much about your illness, or may misunderstand it. Don’t expect them to research on their own; bring the research with you. Anticipate what they don’t know. Bring the information that answers those questions. Your doctor may be able to provide information or direct you to a resource that can.
Give them a way to help. While some people know just the right way to help you, many people don’t know how to be helpful and may be afraid to ask. Think about how the people who love you the most can help you: drive you to doctor’s appointments, plan weekly phone calls or check-ins, or participate in family therapy.- Ask for next steps. Do you want your family to share your health news with the rest of the family, or is this something you want kept quiet amongst just your closest relatives? Be clear when you end the meeting—whether it’s okay to tell your aunts and uncles, or if this is something you want to keep private until you have a better handle on managing your illness.
- Exhale. You did it! Sharing medical news can be nerve-wracking, but you’re telling the people who love you no matter what. You may find out there are others in the family with a similar diagnosis.
Are there any tips you used when talking to your family?