On this episode of the podcast I am talking about a very simple question, most people ask most days "how are you?" Such a simple 3 little words, so why do they fill me with dread?
Simply put I don't know how to answer this anymore, I feel it is a reflex question that goes, "how are you?, "I am fine thank you, how are you?" and I am not ok, so I can't bring myself to say that I am. I have noted if I have ever said, 'I am fine thank you" the response when I see a person another time, they can be like, "oh are you unwell again" and that is so frustrating. No I am not unwell again, I am living with a long term, currently incurable/treatable condition.
Is this an opportunity for education? should we stop asking "how are you" unless we truly are interested in the other person's wellbeing?
I think it is key to consider how this 3 word open ended question could adversely effect the other person, it could prevent someone from feeling they can open up and seek help, if they are not ok. It could cause people to retract from society to avoid these types of empty questions.
I hope this episode of the podcast is useful, if you do need support please reach out and seek help. This may vary from area to area and country to country , if you are unsure ask your healthcare professional to point you in the direction of support.
Links:
Samaritans - https://www.samaritans.org
Mind - https://www.mind.org.uk
My Links:
Long Covid clinic -Dr Binita Kane & Julie Taylor; Email: info@thelongcovidclinic.co.uk for more information
Episode sponsor; Turnto - This is a brilliant app, a one stop shop to support anyone living with, caring for or supporting and additionally professionals working with people living with Long Covid and or MECFS - please mention The Long Covid podcast n the "how did you hear about us" section, thank you
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