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DECIDING HOW YOU WANT TO RESPOND

The first step in RESPONDING TO STIGMA is recognizing when an interaction is making you feel inadequate in some way, and naming it as STIGMA. It helps to recognize that it is the other person’s attitude and/or actions that are the problem, because they are making judgements about you that don’t reflect who you are. It’s NOT about you personally.

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  I think it’s the other folks, the folks that don’t have Alzheimer’s that are uncomfortable with us. It's NOT US that aren’t acting appropriately, I think for the most part we all still do. But is the group that is supposed to be “OK” that is having trouble with it…

- Donna -

How you respond is UP TO YOU. Some people find it is intimidating to speak out, but others feel that it is their responsibility to say something, as these can be valuable moments for making change.

There is NO "ONE RIGHT WAY".

HERE ARE SOME SUGGESTIONS

Suggestions

Sometimes it might not feel like the right time to say something. 

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Recognize

when you feel most vulnerable and give yourself permission to take care of yourself first.

At other times, you may want to respond in the moment.

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Value your own wisdom.

YOU are the expert of your own experience. It can help to speak from your heart and say what you are feeling. 

Suggestions 2

Sometimes talking

to a supportive person can help you decide what you want to say or do. This might include talking to a family member, a good friend, or a person at the Alzheimer’s Society.

Know

that everyone has something different to say or offer.

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