5 ways to help a friend with ALS

ALS is one of the most difficult illnesses to live with, both physically and emotionally. That’s why it’s so important to have a strong support system in place, particularly friends and family who can keep you going through even the roughest patches and remind you why you fight each day to recover from this illness. If someone you know has been diagnosed with ALS, the best thing you can do for them is continue treating them as you always have – or better yet, make an extra effort to be there when they need it most. Here are five ways to help a friend with ALS

1) Educate yourself on ALS

The first step in helping someone with ALS is to educate yourself on his or her condition. While you can’t do anything about your friend’s prognosis, you can give him peace of mind by learning how his disease will progress and what its symptoms are. It may also be helpful for you to understand his ALS treatment options, should he elect to seek them out.

2) Seek Help from Others

ALS patients are likely facing new challenges every day—you don’t have all of their years of experience living with ALS. If your loved one is an ALS patient, make sure they are seeing doctors who are experienced in treating ALS. It’s also important for you to seek help from others—friends, family members, professionals—who can provide emotional support and give you new perspectives on how best to deal with new challenges.

3) Offer Support

ALS patients have little control over their muscles. The most important thing you can do is be supportive and let them know that you care. If you know someone who has ALS, it’s essential to remember that they will continue to be themselves, so don’t treat them differently than before they were diagnosed. It can be helpful if they are facing an emergency or drastic change in their health by being compassionate and offering support so they feel less alone in dealing with their disease.

4) Be Patient

It’s important for friends and family members of those suffering from ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) not to rush them through their recovery. It can be difficult and frustrating, but it’s better for you and your loved one if you give them time and space to recover on their own terms. Take it slow; they know what they need more than anyone else does.

5) Take Care of Yourself

The best way you can support an ALS patient is by taking care of yourself. The ALS Recovery Foundation reports that family and friends are instrumental in maintaining motivation, improving quality of life, and enhancing self-esteem in patients. If you’re caring for someone with ALS, make sure you’re also providing yourself with adequate rest, nutrition, and time off. Also consider getting involved in fundraising opportunities or community events that can take your mind off of things.

Conclusions

ALS Recovery can be hindered by depression. Luckily, there are several steps you can take to help your ALS patient feel good about themselves, keep their self-esteem up and maintain their positive attitude. Not only will they improve their chances of recovery, but they’ll also have better overall quality of life.