When your loved one is in the ICU, you don’t have to go it alone. Building a support network can make a world of difference.
Why It Matters
- Prevents caregiver burnout
- Reminds you to take care of YOU
- Provides emotional support during tough times
- Helps manage the little things you might forget
Think About Who to Ask
Really take a moment to think about who your support community is. Consider…
- Family members (even distant ones!)
- Close friends
- Awesome Neighbors
- Coworkers who always have your back
- Your chosen family (Church, club, sports, or book pals)
- Hospital Staff (List of Services You Might Not Know About)
Ideas for How People Can Help
- Practical Support
- Prepare meals or grocery shop
- Help with housework or pet care
- Drive you to/from the hospital
- Assist with childcare
- Emotional Support
- Lend a listening ear
- Accompany you to difficult meetings
- Send encouraging messages
- Information Management
- Update other friends/family
- Manage a care calendar
- Help research medical information
- Personal Care Reminders
- Check in on your sleep and eating
- Encourage you to take breaks
- Offer to sit with your loved one so you can rest
TIP
Most folks are eager to help but might not know how. Don’t be shy – tell them exactly what you need!
Read our Tips for Asking for Help
Care Coordination Websites
- CaringBridge (caringbridge.org)
- Lotsa Helping Hands (lotsahelpinghands.com)
- Meal Train (mealtrain.com)
- CareCalendar (carecalendar.org)
Meal Planning Websites
- Take Them A Meal (takethemameal.com)
- Give In Kind (giveinkind.com)
- Meal Train (mealtrain.com) – also does general care coordination
- Perfect Potluck (perfectpotluck.com)
TIP
You’re doing great, but you don’t have to do it all alone. Your team is ready to assemble – just say the word!