5 Ways to Have a Strong Relationship with Your Partner While Managing a Chronic Illness
Living with one or many chronic illnesses can take a toll on your physical and mental health and your social relationships. In some situations, your chronic condition may not have existed when you began the relationship. However, once you receive a diagnosis for your illness, it can impact all aspects of your life, including your romantic relationships. Or, you may be entering a relationship with your chronic illness and may not know how to navigate that conversation with your new partner.
Unfortunately, the stresses of living with a chronic illness can take affect your relationship. Your partner may have to become your caregiver, and they may not know how to deal with this new aspect of the relationship. Your invisible illness can strain your relationship, but there are ways to maintain a strong bond with your partner.
Here are five ways to maintain a strong relationship with your partner while living with a chronic illness.
Have effective communication
Communication is crucial for all relationships, especially your romantic ones. When you don’t communicate with your partner, it can cause rifts and distance in the relationship. It's normal to have frustrations about your invisible illness. However, you should feel comfortable sharing those feelings with your partner.
Discuss your needs
Are you having one of those days when your joints are too stiff to move and need help ice them? Or do you need comfort after having an exhausting day at the doctor’s office? Even if you have a designated caregiver, asking your partner for help is okay when you’re not feeling too well. In a relationship, all partners should act as a strong support system for each other.
Enjoy your time together
Find fun activities to do with your partner and express gratitude for your time together. With chronic illnesses, there are limitations in how much you can do each day. Although we know we have a certain amount of spoons daily, think about what activities you can handle.
Have a healthy social life
If you live with your partner and they’re your caregiver, you're around each other more often than not. Separation is essential to sustain a healthy relationship. Try to have an extra support system for friends and family members to assist you when your partner needs a break. Also, it’s good to have people outside of your romantic relationship.
Be considerate of your partner’s health too
If your partner is your caregiver, ensure that you’re also monitoring their health. Taking care of another person’s health and being their emotional support can wear a person down over time. If your partner cannot take care of themself, caregiver burnout can cause issues like social withdrawal, sleeping problems, irritability, and emotional and physical exhaustion. So, ensure they maintain their health and provide care when needed.
It’s great to have someone in your life who can support and care for you as you manage your chronic illness. However, the stresses that come with an invisible illness can harm your relationship. Use these tips to ensure your relationship remains solid as you manage your health.
How Chronius Can Help
If living with chronic illness feels like a full time job, you aren’t alone.
That’s why at Chronius, we make it easy to navigate the healthcare system as a patient. Our online care management platform brings together all of your health records and offers a 1-click appointment prep tool that easily synthesizes your health story for your care team. You also can track all of your symptoms, identify trends, learn from vetted medical information, and follow a custom patient journey map. Plus, if you needs hands on support, our Care Advocates are available to help you with any issues you may hit up against. Personalized support as you navigate your care journey is what we are all about.
Interested in learning more and signing up for our waitlist? Claim your spot today.
