How to Show Sympathy for an Illness
How to Show Sympathy for an Illness
You are not alone, dear heart.
“One of the most important things you can do on this earth is to let people know they are not alone.”
― Shannon L. Alder
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Illness is an isolating event. For the person who is ill, they can feel so alone in the pain and worry; and for the person who is well watching their loved one suffer, it can create a sense of lonely powerlessness.
But with the right words, you can create a bridge between the two countries of loneliness and bring comfort.
Showing Compassion and Empathy for the Unwell
Excerpt from “**How You Can Support Someone with a Chronic Illness”* by Creaky Joints.*
Compassion is not: Telling people to try turmeric, lose weight, exercise more, or any other unsolicited advice. Just don’t — even if it comes from the goodness of your heart.
Compassion is: Getting ice packs for someone, doing a difficult task that might put someone into a flare, or going out of your way to do anything that could “save some spoons.” In other words, real compassion is helping and letting your actions speak louder than words. And it’s OK to ask how to help if you don’t know how but want to.
Also, it’s OK if you can’t help physically offer help. Empathy refers more generally to the ability to take the perspective of and feel the emotions of another person. When others are empathetic, it just helps us feel a little less alone.
Empathy is not: Saying “everyone experiences aches and pains” or “everyone gets tired” or “it is what it is.”
Empathy is: Saying “I am sorry” or “I imagine that must be difficult to manage” or “I am here for you.”
Talking Points
The Person You’re Talking to is Ill
I’m so sorry to hear you’re not feeling well. If there’s anything I can do to help, please let me know.
Sending you all my positive thoughts and warm wishes for a speedy recovery.
I hope each new day brings you closer to feeling better.
Thinking of you and hoping you get well soon.
Just wanted to check in and let you know I'm here for you.
I imagine this must be really tough for you. If you need anything, I’m here.
Wishing you strength and comfort during this challenging time.
I’m keeping you in my thoughts and prayers for a quick recovery.
If you need someone to talk to or just want some company, don’t hesitate to reach out.
I hope you’re getting plenty of rest and taking good care of yourself.
Sending healing thoughts your way and hoping you feel better soon.
You’re not alone in this; I'm here for you.
May each day bring you more strength and health.
I’m thinking of you and wishing you well.
I hope your treatment is going well and you’re feeling a bit better today.
Take things one day at a time and know that I'm cheering you on.
Wishing you peace, rest, and a quick recovery.
I’m here to support you in any way you need.
Hoping you feel surrounded by love and care during this time.
Stay strong and know that better days are ahead.
Illness of a Loved One
I’m so sorry to hear that <name> is unwell. If there is anything I can do — even bake you guys a mean casserole — just let me know!
Wishing <name> warm and sunny wishes for a speedy recovery.
Hoping this finds you and <name> well on the way to a speedy recovery.
Hoping each new day will find <name> feeling better.
Hope he/she will soon be well.
Hope her/his hospital stay is a short one.
Wishing him/her a speedy recovery.
Just a cheery note to wish you and <name> well.
Sending you peaceful thoughts and warm wishes.
Thinking of you and hoping you're feeling better soon.
Thinking of you and <name> and I’m hoping he/she is feeling better.
I hope his/her illness will soon be only a memory.
Just a note to let you know how much I care.
Hope he/se will continue to feel better every day.
Hope he/she will be in the best of health again soon.
My thoughts are with you with love and caring.
Hoping he/she feels stronger with each passing day.
With love and special wishes that <name> will soon be feeling better.
Hope he/she is up and about soon.
May her/his recovery be swift and painless.
I’m thinking of you both.
When Someone Has a Terminal Illness
I’m here for you, no matter what. If you need anything, please let me know.
I’m so sorry to hear about your diagnosis. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Your strength and courage are inspiring. I’m here to support you however I can.
I’m thinking of you and wishing you comfort and peace.
If there’s anything I can do to help make things easier for you, please tell me.
I care about you and am here to listen if you ever want to talk.
You don’t have to go through this alone; I’m here for you.
I’m keeping you and your family in my thoughts during this difficult time.
Your presence in my life has been a gift. Thank you for being you.
I’m so sorry you’re going through this. I’m here for you every step of the way.
If you need a distraction or some company, I’d love to spend time with you.
I’m here to help with anything you need, whether it’s running errands or just sitting with you.
Your well-being is important to me. Please let me know if there’s any way I can support you.
I admire your strength and resilience. I’m here for you, whatever you need.
I’m thinking of you and sending you love and strength.
Your journey has touched so many lives, including mine. I’m grateful for you.
I hope you find comfort and peace during this time. I’m here for you.
I’m here to offer support in any way I can, big or small.
My heart goes out to you and your loved ones. I’m here to help however I can.
I value our time together and am here to support you through this.