Some people with long–term health conditions find social situations difficult. You can feel isolated, believing that your friends and colleagues cannot understand what you are going through. You might even avoid people, fearing that they might ask questions about your health or feel sorry for you.

It may seem easier to stay at home in your comfort zone, but this is a vicious circle, leading to isolation and worsening your fears.

Even though you are relying on other people to understand and co–operate, don’t be disheartened before you try. Your illness may have affected you, but you are still the same person inside.

Try not to shut people out. Remember that if the roles were reversed you would want to offer help and support. By allowing others to understand, accept and support you, you will start to feel more positive and enjoy getting out and about.

At NI Chest Heart & Stroke, we co–ordinate a range of services that could help you resume your social life. Call us on  028 9032 0184 for more information.