How to Help a Sick Friend: Practical Ways to Show Support
When a friend becomes sick, it can be difficult to know how you can support them. Naturally, you want to be supportive. But there’s no guidebook for how to help.
It’s important to understand that your friend isn’t defined by their diagnosis. And as a part of their support system, you can greatly help their recovery. We’ve compiled a list of thoughtful gestures and caregiving tips that can help you make a real difference.
Ways you can help a friend virtually
If you don’t live in the same area, there are still ways you can offer comfort and support to a friend in need. Here are some ways to support them from afar.
1. Create a playlist
Playlists are great ways to spread virtual cheer to a friend in need of a pick-me-up. Put together some of your favorite jams for a feel-good playlist. You could offer to host a virtual karaoke night for your friend to boost morale.
2. Book, movie, and TV show recommendations
Think of the books that changed your life, the movies that gave you a new perspective, and the TV shows that never fail to make you laugh. Then add them to a list and send it to that person. That way, whenever they need a distraction, they can refer to the list. You could even offer to host a virtual movie night with other friends as an easy, fun way to get together.
3. Photo collage
Put together a photo slideshow of memorable photos throughout the years. It’s a simple gesture that can have a big impact. Your friend can play the slideshow on a loop on any screen to remind them of happy memories and lift their mood. You can also take this idea to print and create a scrapbook.
4. Subscriptions
Whether you get a subscription for farm-to-door delivery, Netflix, or a monthly box of spa products, this present is sure to be appreciated. And since it’s the gift that keeps giving, this gesture will continue to delight them each time they receive it.
Ways to support someone in person
As the saying goes, actions speak louder than words. Show your friend you care by supporting them in person with these ideas.
5. Grocery shop
Sometimes, it’s little things like grocery shopping that can help out a friend and their family members. Having a kitchen stocked full of food means they have one less thing to worry about.
6. Walk their pets
Sometimes it can be difficult for people to properly care for their dogs when they’re focused on recovering. Keep your friend’s pup active and happy. A good walk can tire out a dog, so all he’d want to do is cuddle with your friend when he gets home.
7. Babysit or carpool
If your friend has kids, offer to pick them up from school. You can even offer to take them for a weeknight play date with your kids. A small break allows your friend to regain some energy.
8. Laundry patrol
Small chores like laundry are pushed to the back burner after a diagnosis. But having fresh clothes, towels, and sheets can help bring your friend comfort. Schedule a time to help them out with the laundry.
9. Car wash
Cook her lunch for the week or make a big batch of soup that she can freeze and eat as she pleases. Having pre-made meals on hand will make her day-to-day living easier. And it will help to ensure she’s eating healthfully and consistently. You can also schedule meals for sick friends so they do not have to worry about planning meals.
How to help a friend financially
With healthcare costs rising, it’s no wonder that people struggle to pay their medical bills. There are many ways you can help your friend financially to fund medical treatment and any other unexpected expenses.
10. Start a fundraiser
You can help your friend with financial support by using a fundraising platform like GoFundMe. Setting up a fundraising page is easy, and you can share it on social media to reach potential donors. Remember to check with your friend before you set it up on their behalf.
11. Host a fundraising event
From bake sales to raffles, there are plenty of easy fundraising ideas to raise money for your friend. People are very keen to support good causes, so make sure they have plenty of opportunity to. Whatever your type of fundraisers, consider charging an entry fee or encouraging small donations.
12. Host a community event
Invite local community members to get together for a special event, such as a cook-off or a trivia night. You could ask people to bring donations, such as food and baked goods, and encourage donations to help reach your fundraising goals. Be sure to signpost people to your online fundraising page and make cash donations possible, too.
Homemade comfort
Nothing beats homemade comfort, especially when you are unwell. Show your friend you care with cooking and care packages. They won’t forget it.
13. Meal-prep
Cook lunch for the week or make a big batch of soup that they can freeze and eat as they please. Having pre-made meals on hand will make their day-to-day living easier. And it will help to ensure they’re eating healthfully and consistently. You can also schedule meals for sick friends so they do not have to worry about planning meals. If you’re not nearby, you could always send them a voucher for a local restaurant or takeout to treat them.
14. Care package ideas for a sick friend
There are endless items to put in a care package for a sick friend. If you send a care package to a sick friend, you could include sweatpants, tea, soft socks, magazines, gift cards, and whatever else you think may uplift their spirits.
15. Organized appointment binder
Appointments can get complicated. If you have keen organizational skills, offer them to your friend. Put together a comprehensive guide to scheduling appointments. It will help them stay on top of everything.
Well wishes and other ways to support a sick friend
Still looking for ideas? There are so many ways to support a friend in need. Here are some thoughtful ideas.
16. Start a CaringBridge site for your friend
CaringBridge is a nonprofit that offers sick people and their caregivers a chance to journal, provides health updates, read well wishes from loved ones, post photos, and coordinate daily support tasks like meal trains, child care, or transportation assistance. Consider starting one for a friend going through a difficult diagnosis so you can help communicate their health journey to loved ones. Before you start a CaringBridge for someone else, be sure that they have given you permission.
17. Get well soon cards
It can be difficult to figure out what to say to someone who is sick. If you’re wondering what to write in a card, just be goofy and let your silly side show. Don’t be afraid to be a bit corny. And always speak from the heart.
18. Weekly phone call
Whether you’re chatting about the most recent episode of your favorite TV show or just listening to them vent about their fears, a phone call can go a long way. The goal is to ensure that your friend feels like they’ve still got a normal life, even if they had to miss the book club for an appointment.
19. Bring flowers
It can also be difficult to know how to make someone who is sick feel better. But a bright bouquet of flowers is sure to put a smile on anyone’s face. Not to mention, the smell and colors can brighten any room.
20. Give them a keepsake
Find a special item to give to your friend that they can treasure as a small keepsake. They can take it with them to appointments for comfort. Perhaps a small stuffed animal, a keychain, or a homemade friendship bracelet?
More tips on how to help someone who is sick
- Be sure you respect your friend’s desires. Before you offer your support to a friend, ask them if they would be open to receiving it.
- If they accept your offer, create a schedule for a few concrete ways you can help throughout the week, like cooking dinner every Monday.
- Keeping to a set schedule will also help you keep up the momentum and provide stability. You want to show them that you will be by their side throughout their recovery.
- Maintain the same friendship you shared before. Do the same activities you have always enjoyed together, like cooking or playing cards.
- Keep the lines of communication open. Listen to their needs and welcome honesty into your conversations. Their needs or preferences for accepting help may change over time.
Ready to help a sick friend? Start a fundraiser today
Setting up a medical fundraising campaign for your friend can help ease their financial stress and raise awareness about their condition. GoFundMe is on hand to help you set up your fundraiser and answer your questions.
At GoFundMe, we are proud to offer 24/7 customer support and no platform fees so you can set up your crowdfunding efforts for free. You should also consider whether the platform offers guidance and tips to help with your fundraising efforts for medical causes. Here are some fundraising tips to get started.