With Cushing’s, Transparency Can Help Us Manage Relationships

It’s hard when you lose friends. It’s even harder when you lose them because you can’t invest the same amount of energy in them as you did before Cushing’s disease.

People have their reasons and seasons in your life, but losing them is a hard pill to swallow. They might still be here if you magically managed to keep your cup abundantly full, but you can’t do that and fill theirs, too.

I’ll tell you my truth: Cushing’s has taught me to be selfish. I don’t mean self-centered or uninterested in other people’s problems; I mean this disease taught me to prioritize myself.

That’s especially important when battling a disease because of the demanding process to heal your physical, spiritual, and mental well-being. Many people may look at your absence and think you are a bad friend because you can’t support them in the way they need. In this case, transparency is the best solution.

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Everyone has things going on in their lives, and no struggle is less important than another; they’re just different. Here are some tips to improve transparent communication for both the loved ones of Cushing’s patients and the patients themselves.

To the Cushing’s patients: To say it’s difficult is an understatement when trying to explain our disease and how it affects our bodies. Maybe try making a video for others that explains it all in depth, from diagnosis to symptoms. This way you won’t have to reexplain the long story. Try to be as transparent as possible, letting people know your game plan and what you plan to do for yourself as you embark on the journey of creating You 2.0.

It’s also important to be patient with those who don’t quite understand why this journey is such a big deal. Try not to let their comments frustrate you; you know the truth.

To the loved ones of Cushing’s patients: Try to remember that they are under constant high stress. Cushing’s patients are very sensitive to triggering situations, so if they struggle to control their emotions, please be gentle.

Body image is a sensitive topic, so don’t suggest working out or eating less or healthier; changing their lifestyle has nothing to do with weight management. Do some research on Cushing’s disease if you still don’t understand it.

Most importantly, be open to talking with your loved ones with Cushing’s, and be receptive to what they have to say.

Note: Cushing’s Disease News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Cushing’s Disease News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Cushing’s.