It's Long Covid awareness month and 5 years on, people still don't know what Long Covid is and most of all may not know how to support someone with Long Covid. Long Covid is the health challenge that led me to switch careers and that's when I found Health Coaching. I will share a bit more on this next week.
Long COVID is exhausting, unpredictable, and isolating.
While friends and family mean well, some common attempts at support can unintentionally do more harm than good.
Here’s how to truly help someone navigating this invisible illness.
1. Saying “Let me know if you need anything”
❌ Why it’s unhelpful: People with Long COVID are often too drained to figure out what they need or ask for help. The mental effort required to make a request can feel overwhelming.
✅ What to do instead: Offer something specific: “I’m dropping off a meal on Tuesday—would you prefer soup or a smoothie?” or “I’m at the store, do you need any essentials?”
2. Encouraging them to ‘push through’ or ‘stay positive’
❌ Why it’s unhelpful: Long COVID isn’t about mindset. Pushing through symptoms can lead to crashes, making things worse. Toxic positivity can also make people feel unseen.
✅ What to do instead: Validate their experience. Say, “That sounds really tough. I’m here if you need to vent or just sit in silence.” Sometimes, just listening is the best gift.
3. Surprising them with an unplanned visit
❌ Why it’s unhelpful: Energy levels fluctuate. Socializing, even with loved ones, can be draining. An unexpected visit may force them to push past their limits.
✅ What to do instead: Send a message first: “I’d love to see you, but only if you have the energy. Would a short video call or voice note feel better right now?”
4. Telling them about someone else who ‘just got better’
❌ Why it’s unhelpful: Every Long COVID journey is different. Stories of others who recovered quickly can feel dismissive or pressure them to “hurry up” and heal.
✅ What to do instead: Ask them what helps on their harder days. Whether it’s distraction, gentle company, or space, knowing what they need makes a difference.
5. Assuming rest equals laziness
❌ Why it’s unhelpful: Rest isn’t optional—it’s essential. Many with Long COVID are in a constant cycle of energy depletion and recovery. Rest allows healing.
✅ What to do instead: If they mention resting, respond with, “I’m glad you’re taking care of yourself.” Encouragement without judgment goes a long way.
Final Thought
Support isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about being thoughtful and adaptable. By listening, offering practical help, and respecting their limits, you can truly make a difference for someone with Long COVID.
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