For supporters
Help without taking over.
Support is useful when it is specific, respectful, and led by the person living with the condition.
Ask what actually helps.
- Listen before offering solutions.
- Offer specific help: transportation, notes, meals within the person’s chosen plan, or help with logistics.
- Respect privacy and do not share medical details without permission.
- Do not pressure the person toward a medication, diet, procedure, or alternative remedy.
- Let the patient lead healthcare decisions with qualified professionals.
- Use emergency services when there is a medical emergency.
Prepare for an appointment only with consent.
If invited, help organize questions and take notes. Ask the patient what role they want you to play before the appointment begins.
Real questions. Lived experience.
Ask Mike J.
Supporting somebody with Crohn’s can raise questions that do not fit neatly into a medical article. Ask Mike what has genuinely helped him—and what has made things harder.