Being given a diagnosis of Dementia by a health professional can be a very worrying time, affecting you, your family and close friends. It’s natural to feel worried, confused and unsure of where to turn.

There is no right or wrong way to feel following a Dementia diagnosis, but it is important to receive the right support. We’ve put together some advice that can help you to manage your emotions during what can be an overwhelming time – from support groups to online help and professional care.

How to manage the impact of a Dementia diagnosis

There is no right or wrong way to react when receiving this news. You may experience phases of disbelief, anger and worry, all of which are completely normal. It’s important to take the time to deal with your diagnosis and talk to those around you about how you’re feeling. We’ve compiled a list of things you can try if you’re coping with a Dementia diagnosis to help you and your loved ones cope.

Try talking to other people

It might be that you find talking to people about your diagnosis helps you deal with the impact of Dementia. Being honest and letting people know how you feel is a good way to cope with your emotions, resulting in a sense of relief that everything is out in the open. While this works for some, others may feel more private and prefer to talk things through with someone less familiar. If this is the case, these are many Dementia support services available to help.

Online discussions

Online groups and forums are a useful way for a community of people to access helpful support. Online Dementia support groups such as Dementia Talking Point. could be the first step towards reaching out – be it day or night. It may help you to reach out in your own way, plus it doesn’t cost anything. Once you’ve signed up, you’ll be able to post questions on the forum to receive help and support from people in a similar situation. You can also post comments as a way of offering moral support and talking about your own experiences.

Dementia support groups

Dementia support groups are something to consider when you feel comfortable and ready to do so. Joining a support group can be a healthy way of getting advice from compassionate, experienced staff, as well as an opportunity to talk to others who are in the same position as you. Dementia support groups often become invaluable to those living with the condition, improving confidence little by little.

Professional support

If you find yourself struggling with the impact of Dementia, there are many Dementia support services available to help ease your distress. It’s normal to experience feelings of anxiety or depression following a Dementia diagnosis, but qualified advisors and counsellors are here to help. Over 90% of people say a Dementia advisor improves their quality of life.

A Dementia advisor can offer professional support in a variety of ways. They can listen to your concerns and provide access to local Dementia support services, including social groups, online support and financial help. Alternatively, you may feel more comfortable speaking to your GP about how you’re feeling. They’ll be able to listen, provide qualified advice and suggest any suitable next steps.

The Alzheimer’s Society is one of the best Dementia resources available. With their Dementia Connect service, you can access a team of specialists on a regular basis. Available via phone call or email, they will be able to answer any questions you may have and recommend local support should you need it.

Resources about Dementia

There are lots of publications for those living with or caring for someone dealing with Dementia, including books, videos and magazines. Dementia Together is a magazine for anyone who is living with the condition. You will be able to read examples of real-life stories, and join a community of united people who are coping together by sharing valuable, encouraging tips as well as updates about research and campaigns.

Searching for more Dementia support?

For more information and practical advice on how to manage the impact of a Dementia diagnosis, you can read:

For more information on live-in carer matching services for those living with Dementia, get in touch with us today. Someone from our friendly team will be available to listen and talk things through, to see how our live-in carer finder service could make life easier for you and your loved one.