Publication
Facing Dementia
Section Five: Emotional support
Remember, you are not alone. You don't have to face dementia by yourself. You can find emotional support from all kinds of people?family, friends, professionals and volunteers working with people with dementia, and other people with dementia.
Different people have different reactions to being told that they have dementia. For some people, the first reaction is to tell someone else, perhaps their partner or a daughter or son. Other people keep it to themselves, perhaps because they feel there is no-one they can tell,or because they don't want to upset people they are close to.
It is very important to be able to talk about it. It can be hard at first to know how to start. You may be afraid of other people's reactions. Will they be afraid or feel awkward? Will they support you or reject you?
If you are not sure who you can talk to, speak to someone you aren't close to first of all. They can help you decide who to tell. Perhaps you could talk it over with your doctor, community psychiatric nurse, social worker or someone from your local Alzheimer Scotland Action on Dementia project. And you can call the Dementia Helpline on 0808 808 3000. Calls are free. The Helpline is open 24hours a day. There is always someone to talk to who knows about dementia and can help you think things through and provide you with information.
As well as the support of people close to them, many people find that professional counselling can help them cope better with their diagnosis. Your doctor can help you find a counsellor in your area.
Some people have found great support from other people with dementia. In her book 'Living in the Labyrinth: a Personal Journey Through the Maze of Alzheimer's', Diana Friel McGowin, who has dementia, says, 'I found I was not the only early-diagnosed, early-onset victim? much in need of mutual support. No matter how caring our friends and family members are, WE STILL NEED EACH OTHER?people walking through the same maze as ourselves!'
At present, there are not many groups for people with dementia, so you may not find one ready-made. But you could ask for help to set one up, from Alzheimer Scotland Action on Dementia or your doctor, community psychiatric nurse or social worker.
Summary
Talk to your doctor, nurse or social worker.
Contact your local Alzheimer Scotland Action on Dementia project.
Talk to a counsellor. Ask if there is a support group for people with dementia.
You are not alone. Call the 24-hour Dementia Helpline free on 0808 808 3000