Ankylosing spondylitis: how do you talk to your family about it?

Hello @spond568‍, thank you for opening this discussion! 

Hi everyone, how are you today?

Are you able to talk openly about your AS with your loved ones? Do they understand what you're going through? How do you talk to them about it? Have you ever had someone not believe you?
@Badbones‍ @Cdionne1089‍ @Avro560‍ @Kerryross‍ @Kanna3‍ @w2007sara‍ @JayLynn‍ @Tinamaria‍ @jrobinjrob‍ 

Don't hesitate to share your experiences and advice here!

Take care,
Courtney

For me, it is important not to hesitate to speak up. Your family must support you, it is essential for our recovery

As for my own opinion, I am willing to tell my family my current situation about AS. Because only family is the place that loves, protects and protects us. Your family will take care of you through this difficult time. [This content has been moderated by an administrator for violating Carenity’s Terms of Use.] 

I think you should be frank with your family [This content has been moderated by an administrator] 

I completely understand the struggle. For years, my family dismissed my complaints as "just aches and pains" or "growing old." It was incredibly frustrating trying to explain the constant fatigue and stiffness, the way it impacted my daily life. Eventually, a clear diagnosis and some informative sessions with my rheumatologist helped them understand the reality of ankylosing spondylitis. Now, they're much more supportive, which makes a huge difference.

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Ankylosing spondylitis can be tough, especially when explaining it to loved ones. Break it down simply. Think of it like a puzzle where the pieces (your spine) want to stick together when they shouldn't. Communication is key!

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It's tough when family doesn't fully understand. Sharing my experiences felt like an uphill battle at first. What helped was focusing on specific examples of how AS impacts me, not just the label. Be patient and keep communicating. [This content has been moderated by an administrator.] Hang in there.

Hello everyone 🌟

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We’re checking back in on this discussion: Ankylosing spondylitis and talking to your family 💛💬

Explaining your condition to loved ones isn’t always easy, especially when symptoms are invisible or hard to describe 🤍

💬 How do you talk to your family about your condition? What has helped (or made it harder)? Do you have any tips to share? 🌿✨

Your experience could really help others feel understood and supported 🤝💛

Take care,
Somya from the Carenity team 🌼