How to tell your Family that you have a Major Illness

(462 Words)
It can be very difficult to tell your family that you have a major illness. Different strategies can help you impart this important message in a way that will be easier for you and them.
Decide how you want to tell them
The first major decision will not be the same for everyone. You need to decide whether you want to tell people individually or as a group. There are advantages and disadvantages to each strategy, and you have to decide which outweighs the other in your particular situation.
If you tell them individually, then you will only have one person on which to focus. You can tailor your speech to their personality and your relationship with them. You may also feel less self-conscious. You will however have to give the speech multiple times, however, and worry about the information getting spread without you.
If you tell them together then you can get it all done at once. Some people will have trouble telling so many people at once.
Tell them straightforward
It will be more difficult if you “beat around the bush.” Once you have them gathered, then just say it. It can be very difficult to get out. It is important to be understanding of yourself. If you cannot say it without crying, then that is okay. It is a very difficult situation, and you need to do what you can do.
You decide how much to tell them. You do not have to share every detail of your situation. Of course, they can provide a lot of support so you may want to tell them what you can.
Bring information
It may be easier if you gather all of your information together before you speak to them. You can find the medical information about the condition such as treatments.
Let them support you
When you tell them, then they may want to support you. Let them do this. Do not feel shy or embarrassed. They are your family, and they probably want to be there for you.
Focus on the positive
Even many major medical illnesses have treatments and positive aspects. If yours does, then focus on that. Being optimistic can make a huge difference in the outcome. Stay positive, and hopefully your family will as well.
You control how they should interact with you
If you do not want them to ask questions, then respectfully say that. If you will not want to talk about it in the future, then tell them that too. Let them know what your needs are and how you want them to treat you.
It can be challenging to share the fact that you have a major illness with your family. Use the above strategies to aid you in this disclosure.
Resources:
http://www.cancer.org/Treatment/ChildrenandCancer/HelpingChildrenWhenaFamilyMemberHasCancer/DealingWithaParentsTerminalIllness/index