Coping and support

Learning that you or your child has a chronic illness, such as familial Mediterranean fever, can be upsetting and frustrating. Here are some tips that may help you cope:

• Learn about familial Mediterranean fever. Find out enough about familial Mediterranean fever that you feel comfortable making decisions about your or your child's care. Ask your doctor for good sources of information to get you started.
• Find someone to talk with. Talking to a family member, trusted friend, or a counselor or therapist can allow you to express your fears and frustrations. Some people also find support groups helpful because members truly understand what you're going through. Ask your doctor if there is a support group for people affected by familial Mediterranean fever in your area.