Sickle cell disease and types of communication

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Learn about different types of communication and find out why good communication is important when you have sickle cell disease.

Key points

  • There are many ways to communicate. Knowing how you like to communicate can help you understand yourself and become a better communicator.
  • Communication is important when you have sickle cell disease because it helps you and those around you understand how you feel so that you can be active in making the decisions that affect you.
  • You may sometimes find it hard to talk about sickle cell disease and what you think and feel about the condition. This gets easier with practice.
     

    Communication means exchanging information. You can communicate in many ways. In fact, almost everything that you do communicates with the people around you in some way.

    Throughout this module, you will find advice and information to help you feel more confident when speaking up for yourself and communicating with others.

    Types of communication

    Blue illustrated hands holding a pencil over a closed journal on a desk

    Look at the following list and think about the types of communication that are most important and effective for you.

    • Talking in person
    • Talking on the phone
    • Writing in a journal
    • Writing letters
    • Writing emails
    • Texting
    • Writing a blog
    • Making or writing music
    • Creating art
    • Writing poetry, plays or stories
    • Making or sharing videos
    • Commenting on online content (for example, articles, videos, photos)

    Being aware of how you like to communicate and the messages you send to others can help you understand yourself and become a more effective communicator.

    Why is communication so important when you have sickle cell disease?

    Teen sitting across from a health-care provider

    Communication helps you stay informed about your condition and any treatments so that you can have a say in the decisions that affect you.

    Developing your communication skills

    You may find it hard at times to talk to others about your sickle cell disease and your thoughts and feelings about the condition. This is normal! Sickle cell disease and its effects can be difficult to describe. You will get better with practice and feedback.

    On the next page, you will find some questions and prompts to guide you before, during and after you communicate with others.

    Dernières mises à jour: janvier 4th 2024