Is your support supportive?

When your family member or friend is recovering and adjusting to a new physical injury or condition, your supportive support is crucial to their best recovery!

As a physical therapist, I have a few suggestions:

First, in early recovery, allow for a grievance period. Recognize their loss and give them time to feel sadness and even anger. A simple ankle sprain may mean the loss of playing time. A tragic accident - resulting in an amputation or paralysis - may mean the loss of an entire lifestyle. Regardless of the situation, the loss is real and must be respected. Supportive support is being available, being present, and being patient.

Later, after the grievance period, make sure you are a believer in their recovery. You must believe in their body’s natural desire to heal. You must believe in their mind’s capacity to cooperatively assist in the healing process. Even when they don’t believe, you must hold the banner with confidence and perseverance. Supportive support is being open-minded to possibilities, being steadfast with encouragement, and being loving and compassionate as you push.

As you consider these suggestions, please remember that clear, honest communication - especially super good listening - is always at the heart of supportive support.

Everyone needs supportive support. Including you… and me!