Edited By: Nataliya Babota

Learning that your partner is suffering from a serious health condition is heartbreaking and difficult to accept on its own, but understanding that you will have to become their caregiver is an additional blow that can leave you feeling completely lost. Still, you surely understand that they will need your support now more than ever, and in new and unexpected ways, too. Finding yourself in such a challenging situation may make you feel helpless, but there are certain things you can do to support your spouse, no matter what their condition may be. Here are 5 ways you can help your spouse through a health challenge.

1. Learn About Your Partner’s Condition

Certain conditions require lifestyle and diet changes or come with symptoms you might not be aware of, and one of the best ways to be prepared for these challenges is to educate yourself about your spouse’s health condition. Apart from being more helpful at meeting your partner’s new needs, you will also feel calmer and more in control of the situation if you know what’s going on with your loved one.

2. Spend Time and Listen To Your Spouse

Be sure to let your spouse know you have their back and express your love. But even if you’re not the consoling type and have no idea what to say, you can express your readiness to help and support your loved one by listening and spending time with him/her. If their health allows, do things together both of you enjoy, even if it’s just watching a film together or spending time with the family. Chances are, both of you will cherish and gain a newfound appreciation of these seemingly ordinary family moments.