Supporting Mum

Pauline1 2 years ago

1 reply

Mum has been given 3 months to live. We were told 2/3  weeks ago now. Mum is becoming weaker but I worry more about her mental health. She has become very withdrawn and seems reluctant to talk. She is in bed most of the time and although she knows what is going to happen she can't understand why there is no more treatment. She looks lost and empty in her eyes so I want to know what I can do to support her and help her open up.

joanne24 2 years ago

Hello and welcome to the Marie Curie Community, we are sorry to hear about your mum’s prognosis, its understandably a very difficult time for you. As people approach the end of their life, they may experience different feelings and emotions, some of these maybe upsetting. I have included a link to one of our web pages that may be useful to you regarding ways to help support her through this emotionally and help her process the information she has been given https://www.mariecurie.org.uk/help/support/terminal-illness/preparing/end-of-life-experiences.Some of these ideas might help her to open up to you and talk about her feelings or concerns.

Sometimes its not a case of what to say but just being there and holding her hand for support that can make a difference. Hopefully others here on the Marie Curie Community can share their experiences and insights, perhaps talk about ways in which they managed a similar situation.

The Marie Curie Community is a safe place for you to share as much as you feel comfortable sharing and ask any questions. If you want to speak with us on our Support Line, we are here for practical information and emotional support on Freephone 0800 090 2309 or by email support@mariecurie.org.uk.

Take care