Build relationships that will improve your quality of life

A well-rounded support system is important for our well-being as humans, but it’s especially important for those of us living with AI.

Health limitations can leave us dependent on others for simple daily chores, and the frustration of chronic illness takes its toll. Recognizing and appreciating the natural give and take of relationships can help build a support system that will stand the test of difficult times.

Here’s a few ideas to help you create relationships that will improve your quality of life.

1. Every relationship in life involves giving and receiving.
   We all have something to give and other things we need. It’s part of what keeps us all connected.  You may feel uncomfortable accepting help. Remind yourself that you’re participating in the loop of give and receive and it will get easier over time. Each person you know will have something unique to give. For example, your neighbor may be able to pick up a few groceries for you, but can’t handle it when you have a meltdown. Your support group can listen to you vent but can’t pick up your prescription. Understanding this can help you turn to the right place for the kind of support you need. The other side of this is knowing what you have to give. Think of ways you can help others. Mobility issues mean you can offer understanding to others facing the same problem. You may be a good listener. Or maybe you know how to make people laugh. If you have a lot of time on your hands you may take up crafts or knit hats for the homeless. Helping people takes your mind off your own problems and makes you feel good about yourself. Learn to appreciate people for what they do and recognize what you have to offer.
   
2. Chronic illness can be isolating.
   Healthy friends move on and sick days can make it hard to communicate or be around people. Online support groups are great. Knowing you can rely on them during the worst situations can make it easier to spend time with people who don’t know the world of sickness. We need to connect with others who face the same challenges. But to be balanced we need connections with all types of people. Chatting with healthy friends can provide a welcome distraction from your own problems. Challenge yourself to have conversations about a variety of subjects. Take an active interest in other people’s lives. Use technology to stay connected. Cultivate relationships both near and far. Have coffee with a neighbor. Maybe create a new tradition with family or friends, a Sunday afternoon potluck, or a trip to the park once a month. Look for groups with the same interests you have. If you live alone these can offer the face to face contact we all need. It’s up to you to be proactive, but the rewards of connecting with people are worth it. By building a variety of relationships you will always have someone to turn to when you need support.
   
3. Check out support services in your area.
   In some communities there are people who offer their skills to help the disabled and elderly. Local churches may provide some support. Even rural grocery stores might deliver. There may also be county, state, or federal services available for rides to the doctor or meal delivery. Knowing what your community offers is another component of a good support system.
   Click here for a post on this subject.
   
4. Support yourself.
   There are many ways you can help yourself in advance. For example, keep a list of people to call when you need help. It may be as simple as having someone sit with you while you recover from a crash. For tips on preparing for an emergency, click here. Another way to support yourself in advance is to keep a list of coping strategies and people to contact on your phone “in case of emergency” Confusion can get the best of you when you’re low cortisol. Keeping a list in your phone can help you decide what to do when you don’t feel well.
   
5. Not everyone can give you the same level of support.
   The people you give to, might not be the ones who return the favor. Some people will cheer you up chatting for a few minutes. Others will be there for you in a crisis. That’s the way it is. If you understand this and accept what each person has to offer, you’ll see there is support all around you.

Adrenal Insufficiency can leave you feeling vulnerable. We hope these suggestions help you create relationships you can depend on.