Here is the short of it... I am the wife of a Crohns/Colitis sufferer and I am having difficulties dealing with the stress of everything. Does anyone know of a support group or forum for the "non-sick" people dealing with this terrible disease?
Reply posted for 1dimple.
Definitely look for a support group in your area. If your husband won't go, you go. I used to think support groups were silly until after my daughter was diagnosed with Crohns'. I went to a meeting on a whim and those connections have been as valuable as the great relationship we have forged with her physician.
Reply posted for 1dimple.
I took a class a few years ago "Living With Chronic Illness" it was designed for patients AND their caregivers / loved ones. I found it very helpful. Do a search for a class or group that is similar. Also, I have recently found a grief counseling group affiliated with a local hospice house that has been very welcoming and supportive. Chronic, severe illness is life altering, and can be life threatening. It is okay to grieve. Don't let people close you out because their viewpoint is too narrow. Get the support where you can in a way that will be helpful to YOU. And remember that in order to have the energy to care for your spouse, you need to replenish yourself, too. Consider counseling, massage, reflexology, acupuncture, chiropractic, meditation.......Make caring for yourself a priority so that you can be there for others. It is a lesson those of us living with IBD must learn if we are to be in control rather than just victims of our circumstances.
Reply posted for 1dimple.
I don't know of a support group for family members of Crohn's disease sufferers, but I do want to say that I (as a sufferer of CD) understand how difficult it must be for you to love someone with this disease. It takes alot of patience, understanding, tolerance, and love...kudos to you for reaching out to try and find help dealing with the emotional issues associated with this disease, for sufferers as well as those who love them.