In this course, we’ll cover techniques and tips for communicating with the important people in your life and getting the support that you need. Having a chronic illness or caring for someone who is ill can be stressful. The stress makes good, respectful communication even more important and key for ensuring everyone has their needs met.

The first two lectures will lay the groundwork for techniques that will be used in future lectures. The next lecture will focus on handling tricky relationship situations like disagreements and saying no. Next we will cover all ways to maximize your social support so that you are able to focus on your health or the health of your loved one. The penultimate lecture will cover how to support other people and identify your own strengths for helping people. Lastly, we will cover how to ensure that you are not drained by both supporting others and working on communication. I will introduce the concept of an emotional bank, a way to track how emotionally drained or full you feel and making sure you are taking care of yourself as well as others.

This course includes a handout used through out the course to track homework assignments so what we talk about in lecture can translate to your real life. There is also a supplementary handout on accessing mental healthcare in case you feel you need additional support after the class. I’m so glad you are here!