What if you're not a medical professional? Is there anything you can do to help someone feel better, to help their healing from serious illness or injury?
It could be said that the best thing you can do is to help someone feel good about themselves and have a positive outlook. Here are a few areas where you can help the healing process:
Life Review. When someone is sick, they tend to review their lives. You can help them by encouraging them to tell stories, keep a journal, write letters, or pen poetry.
The Arts. Cultural activities can aid in healing. Bring your sick friend a new CD of their favorite kind of music. Drop by their bedside with a craft project they'll enjoy. If they're able, take them to a theatrical performance. Give them a classic book to read, or a humorous one. (Laughter has healing powers all its own!)
Interpersonal Closeness. Share vulnerability with them. Now is not the time to pull away. It may be difficult to share in their pain, but they need you to be with them through each stage of their illness. Let them express their feelings (guilt, fear, anticipation) without passing judgment.
Usefulness. Just because someone is sick doesn't mean they need to stop contributing. Encourage them to play a part in whatever way possible. Someone with diabetes can continue to host parties. A person who had a heart attack can still sing in a church choir. If their sickness leaves them confined to bed, they can still find things to do: For example, call other shut-ins or copy favorite recipes to send to a newlywed.
Rest. Sometimes, the best treatment is rest. Clean their house for them. Bring them and their family a home-cooked meal. Offer to do their laundry.
Ritual. If the sick person always watches the 10 o'clock news, encourage them to continue doing so. If they always played cards on Tuesday night, try to keep the game going (provided the sickness isn't contagious).
Spirituality. Prayer can bring peace of mind. Some studies show a positive relationship between praying and healing. The effect appears to be similar to the benefits of meditation.
Whether the illness is long-term or short-term, easing the sick person's burden and stress can go a long way toward a speedier recovery. |
