"Contending with the difficult questions and circumstances that accompany chronic illness, this handbook aims to comfort those suffering from a sustained condition as well as their loved ones. Tips on what to do and say in exchanges between sufferers and those closest to them are provided in a no-nonsense manner and plain language. Five concise sections cover ideal communication, the most efficient ways to provide support, listening and observing, relating, and responding to different moods and challenging dialogue. Addressing a crucial need for the present day, this is an essential guide for millions of people touched by prolonged ailments"-- "Nearly everyone has a family member or a friend who is chronically ill, yet tragically few of us feel comfortable when interacting with someone who is chronically ill. Typically, we don't know what to do or say to them. This book provides specific, practical and helpful guidelines for professional caregivers, family members and friends when interacting with chronically ill people. It contains suggestions for both what to do and say and what to avoid doing and saying in almost any situation you will encounter. It is designed to help you understand and to be understood by seriously ill people needing your help. The topics are presented in plain language, in a concise, no-nonsense manner. Each topic can be read quickly (most can be read in only ten to fifteen minutes)"-- Provided by publisher. Provided by publisher.

Part 1: Communicating -- Answering questions -- Apologizing -- Avoiding harmful questions -- Avoiding harmful statements -- Avoiding judgmental comments -- Being noncommittal -- Being nonresponsive -- Being silent -- Being understood -- Disagreeing -- Discussing dreams -- Giving and receiving criticism -- Giving and receiving feedback -- Giving and receiving praise -- Asking questions -- Types of questions to ask -- Saying no -- Saying the right thing -- Sharing bad news -- Using a helpful tone of voice -- Using body language -- Part 2: Helping -- Being available -- Being caring -- Being helpful -- Being natural -- Being non-confrontational -- Counseling -- Leveling with someone -- Timing -- Touching helpfully -- Part 3: Listening and Observing -- Hearing someone out -- Observing body language -- Interpreting body language -- Listening between the lines -- Listening to the whole person -- Listening when it counts -- Part 4: Relating -- Being humorous -- Being perceptive -- Being supportive -- Being tactful -- Developing rapport -- Developing trust -- Having a proper attitude -- Having realistic expectations -- Honoring confidences -- Paying attention -- Showing acceptance -- Showing empathy -- Showing respect -- Showing understanding -- Sizing up moods -- Part 5: Responding -- Responding to anger -- Responding to complaints -- Responding to crying -- Responding to depression -- Responding to personal attacks and insults -- Responding to repetitive statements -- Responding to spiritual concerns -- Responding to strong feelings -- Appendix A: Symptoms of Caregiver Burnout -- Appendix B: Stress Coping Methods for Caregivers --