How to Tell Loved Ones You're Worried About Their Health

Learning how to communicate with your family is an extremely valuable tool as this leads to stronger family ties. Communication is an essential building block of healthy relationships whether it be husbands and wives, parents and children or siblings and siblings.

Talk openly with family members

Studies have shown that there is a link between patterns of communication in families and how satisfied each individual is with the familial relationships. Effective communication is a way for people in a family to feel as if their wants, needs, and concerns are being taken seriously by their loved ones. Strive for open and honest communication in all areas and this means that when a sensitive subject such as an illness needs to be discussed it can be.

Make time

When a family member has a health concern find a time to let your loved one know that you are worried about him or her and do so in a kind, compassionate and loving manner. It is probably best to speak to the person when the two of you are alone and have the time to really talk. Don’t bring up the subject when either person is in a hurry, preoccupied or stressed. Try clear and direct communication at first but if your relative is not forthcoming about their situation be cognizant of the fact that the person may not be ready to acknowledge their health problem even to themselves. Be patient and play the waiting game, however always let the other person know that you are there for them to talk to and confide in whenever they are ready to do so. Sometimes just the offer of a compassionate ear or a shoulder to cry on in times of need is all that it takes for a person to open up about their problem.

Do your research

It might be a good idea to find out as much as you can about the health problem your loved one has. Do some research online and find out everything you can about the disease or disorder for your own information and peace of mind. Check the public library for books on the subject as well. The more information you have on the subject at hand the better you will understand the progression of the disease your loved one is living with. Knowledge also gives you a peace of mind and can help you cope with what is to come.

Arrange a family meeting

Getting the family together in an informal setting to discuss the problem would be a good idea. You might decide to have a meeting to discuss how to broach the subject of the illness to the family member or it might be a meeting that includes the person of whose health you are concerned about. Always approach the topic with love, trust, understanding and compassion. If you feel that you need help in this area then speak with the family doctor or a counsellor for some suggestions.