Ten Tips for Caregivers

1. Make a simple offer. Saying, "If you ever want to talk, I'll be ready to listen," tells your friend that it's okay to feel the way he or she feels.
2. Learn to say the word "hepatitis." Too many people believe false information about the virus and how it is spread or not spread. As a result, many people with hepatitis C are made to feel isolated and ashamed of their illness.
3. Be yourself. Act as natural as you can. You were approached by your friend because he or she trusts and admires you. Let your intuition guide you.
4. Educate yourself about hepatitis C. Start by reading the Patient Therapy Management Binder and the Hepatitis Workbook included in your friend's Be In Charge® Program kit. Then, use the Internet and your local library to find out more information about hepatitis C. The more you know, the better you'll be able to help your friend.
5. Lead by example. Be your friend's role model for a healthier lifestyle. Don't drink alcohol around your friend. Encourage your friend to eat healthier meals by eating them yourself. Take walks and do other mild exercise with your friend.
6. Don't nag. If your friend doesn't want to do something, don't pester him or her about it. If you do, it will make your friend want to do that thing even less.
7. Keep a positive outlook. Keep reminding your friend that he or she is on therapy to improve his or her health. Focus on the benefits of treatment.
8. Make plans for the future. Plan a trip, party, or other activities to celebrate the completion of therapy. Give your friend things to look forward to.
9. Be aware of the signs of depression in your friend and in yourself. Depression can be expressed in many ways, including sadness and anger. If you see signs of depression, seek help from a mental health professional.
10. Take care of yourself. Taking care of someone with a serious illness can be stressful, demanding much of your time and energy. No matter how closely the two of you might be, you'll both need other friends and family to talk to.

Effective hepatitis C treatment means a taking a disciplined approach to improving your condition. Receive regular e-mail reminders that will notify you when to perform certain treatment-related activities, such as when it's time to administer medication, meet with your health care provider or refill your prescription.