I feel like a burden.

[Hannah13]

I think the absolute hardest part of this for me is feeling like a burden to my loved ones, to my family. That feeling is really kicking my ass and dragging me into terrible depression. Any ideas?

[amaranthe]

I think we all feel this way at some point. But, I am sure your loved ones dont see you this way at all! I mean think about it, if the tables were turned, would you think of them that way? Of course you wouldnt! So, that's how you know that they arent thinking of you that way either!

But, you asked for ideas, so I would just suggest that you always remind them how much you appreciate everything they do for you and on the days you feel well enough, try to give them a little extra tlc, (like cooking their favorite meal, spending quality time alone with each of them, etc.) And always taking the time to remind them how much you love them and how important they are to you.

Personally, I cant imagine ever thinking that taking care of a loved one would be a burden, unless they took me for granted and were unappreciative. But, as long as someone is grateful, and doesnt expect me to do things, but rather always asks me nicely to do them, then I never resent doing anything for anyone, and will always go the extra mile gladly! :) I think most other ppl are that way too. And from the sound of your post, you obviously dont take any of them for granted, so I dont think you have anything to worry about! :)

I hope you feel better soon!

Kind regards,
amaranthe

[ICNDonna]

I think we all have had some guilt feelings about our IC and how it effects how much we are able to do, but we can all do some things to help loved ones. When my children were small, when I didn't feel good we played board games on my bed, I read to them (even after they learned to read for themselves), watched TV --- and they thought it was very special time.

Just remember that you will have better days when you can do more.

Warm hugs,
Donna

[Preacher-Girl]

Just found this. I understand how you feel. I feel the same way about my husband especially when he is quiet. I'm always wondering if he's thinking about how awful it is that I'm sick all the time. When I'm not sick...I make sure we have lots of crazy sex so he knows how much I love him. Hehehe! I hope that made you smile Hannah.

[Zygala87]

Hannah you are a very caring person to understand your illness effects your whole family. Some people think they are going it alone but in truth any illness effects all our loved ones. It is the nature of what is called a "FAMILY" No need to feel like a burden. I bet you would be there for them no matter what they were dealing with. You suffer and they care. It effects me if any one of my family or true friends are having any kind of problem from trouble with their spouse to any illness, job loss, children problems and on and on. It's the thing we call love and you are loved. Take the best care of yourself that you can and enjoy your Dear Family. Hugs, Ziggy