Offering Support Daily
We’ve put together a list of supportive options below to ask as a guide when supporting someone with POTS.
Examples Of Encouraging Reminders
“Your illness does not impact the love I have for you.”
“I’ve seen you conquer every battle life has thrown your way. I know you will get through this one too.”
“I’m so proud of how you’ve been asking for help.”
“Today is a really hard day. I’m here to listen if you have the spoons or are comfortable sharing.”
“You are beautiful, and no illness can rip that truth away from you.”
“I’ve admired how often you’ve been prioritizing what you’ve needed.”
“You don’t always need to be strong. It’s ok to not be ok.”
“I’m so proud of how you’ve been showing up for yourself and advocating for yourself.”
“All wins are big wins when you are living with POTS.”
“I’m always going to be here for you, even on your harder days. I’m not going anywhere.”
Examples Of Supportive Questions
“How can I help you feel loved this week?”
“What are two ways I can support you today?”
“Is there something that would be helpful to talk about with me today?”
“How can I learn more about your illness?”
“Is there a way I can save you some spoons today?”
“Can I get you anything so you don’t have to get out of bed?”
“Are you comfortable talking about it with me right now?
“Can I give you a hug?”
“What would be best for you”
“Is there a way that I can make you feel more comfortable right now?”
“How can I make it easier for you to attend the party?
“What can I do to make you more comfortable when you visit my house?”
“I know you have been struggling recently; is there anything I can do to help, even from afar?”
“Is there anything that would be most helpful for me to know about your illness?”
Examples Of Ways To Help Them Save Energy
Picking up their medication
Getting their groceries
Helping with laundry
Driving them to appointments
Helping with meal preparation
Restocking their chronic illness carts/stations
Helping with cleaning
Having accessible outing options
Having accessible meal options available
Supporting with childcare
Restocking their medication organizer
Making sure their emergency supplies are prepared and up-to-date
Ways To Support Them With Medical Appts
Offer to take them to appointments
Offer to be in the appointment with them
Schedule a call or text check-in for after the appt
Help them get their to-go bag ready
Understand that appointments can be frightening and triggering
Respect boundaries they may need to help them feel and stay safe
Help them with advocacy and empowerment
Offer support before, during, and after appointments
Advocate for them in appointments when needed
Potential Ways To Help With Symptom Relief
Getting their heating pads or ice packs positioned for them
Freezing used ice packs or migraine hats
Offering massages when possible and/or needed
Getting supplies for them that they need during emergencies
Reducing as many outside stressors as possible, as this is often a trigger
Encouraging the use of mobility aids when needed
Asking how you can help with any tasks that could allow for more resting and recharging
Reviewing flare-up plans with them to know what will help and make a difference
Additional Supportive Phrases To Consider
“I believe in you and will always be in your corner.”
“I’m glad you continue to make room for what comes up for you.”
“You are fighting a battle invisible to so many. I see you and I see your fight.”
“I may not be able to fully understand, but I see you, and I am right by your side.”
“I can’t imagine what you are going through. Please just know I am here.”
“I can see how hard you are trying every single day. You are an inspiration.”
“I’m glad you feel safe opening up to me. I love you and am here to listen.”
“Is there anything that would be most helpful for me to know about your illness?”
“I am so proud of you. I can tell you are in a lot of pain right now. Please let me know how I can help. I am right here by your side.”