Types of Support

Everyone Needs Support. Having hepatitis C can be made easier with the support of friends and family. They can offer encouragement when you need it most, answer important questions, and help you with daily chores when you're not up to it. If someone is willing to help, let them. With their support, you'll be able to focus more on regaining your health.

Unfortunately, not everyone in your life will be supportive. Some people may act differently once they learn of your disease. This can happen because they don't understand hepatitis C. It is important that you answer their questions and address their concerns. That way they will understand the problems you face. Read some approaches to telling your family and friends.

How Should I ask my family for support?

Realizing you have the love and support of your parents, siblings, spouse, and children will provide a real emotional boost. When you are not at your best, your family can help in the following ways:

• Lending a sympathetic ear and emotional support
• Helping you with daily chores
• Promoting your healthy eating habits
• Keeping you away from alcohol
• Making sure you take your medication as scheduled

How Should I ask my friends for support?

There will be times you do not feel well enough to socialize with friends. At other times, you will want your friends nearby for emotional support. Ask your friends to support you by:

• Understanding your decision to socialize less frequently when you are not well
• Staying in touch by phone or for short visits to boost your spirits
• Supporting your decision for treatment
• Supporting your need to avoid alcohol
• Providing a supportive ear and a helping hand

It can be difficult to ask for and accept help from friends and neighbors. However, it will be necessary at times, in order to regain your strength and get on with your life. Accept their help graciously. Ask for their help if you need it.

How Should I ask my doctor for support?

Knowing all you can about hepatitis C will help you make smart decisions. It also will put you at ease, because you'll know what lies ahead.

You need to feel comfortable asking your doctor questions about your disease. The more questions you ask, the more you will learn, and the better prepared you will be to fight hepatitis C. We have a list of topics you may want to discuss during your next visit. You may want to watch other patients describe support experiences with their doctor.

What other professional medical help exists?

Your doctor should always be your primary source of information about your medical condition and treatment. In addition to your doctor, there are other medical professionals ready to help. By enrolling in The Be In Charge® Program, information and support are just a phone call away. Be In Charge offers you 24/7 access by telephone to Nurse Counselors as well as patient-oriented educational materials.

Be In Charge provides vital support when you need it most. Get more information about Be In Charge.

How can I contact other people who are going through the same difficulties I'm experiencing?

Sometimes the best support comes from other hepatitis C patients. Support groups can be a great way to ease the fears and doubts that sometimes occur with hepatitis C. Sharing your thoughts and feelings with people who know exactly how you feel can provide a real boost. The Be In Charge Nurse Counselors can help put you in touch with support groups.

To get started, please choose one of the following:   I have been diagnosed with hepatitis C, but haven't started treatment yet I am on treatment for hepatitis C     * Note: If you or someone you know may be at risk for hepatitis C, please visit www.peg-intron.com See Instructions   Select one of the choices above and click "Next"

You are: Female, 18-25 Female, 26-45 Female, 46 and older Male, 18-25 Male, 26-45 Male, 46 and older