Article: You might feel hurt or angry if your friends go MIA, but their behavior says more about them than it does about you. Your friends may not know what to say to you, or they might find it too difficult to see you suffering.  Seeing a friend come down with a chronic illness is hard for many people because it reminds them that anybody can get sick. People may disappear from your life because they don’t want to think about their own health and mortality. Some of your friends might feel awkward around you because they don’t know how to act anymore. If they’re afraid of saying something wrong, they might start avoiding you altogether. Also, some people inaccurately assume that you want space while you are coming to terms with your diagnosis. Particularly if you have been less present socially due to pain or illness. If a friend says something that hurts your feelings, don’t hesitate to tell them how it affects you. Putting a stop to tactless jokes right away will make your friends less likely to say similar things in the future. If your friend cares about you, they will apologize and speak more carefully next time.  Be direct. Say something like, “That’s pretty hurtful to me. I’d rather you didn’t joke about that.” Be aware that your friend is probably not being intentionally hurtful. They may be making a poor attempt at humor because they don’t know what to say. Not everyone will be capable of giving you the same degree of support, but don't let this keep you from asking. Just be understanding if they can't make something work. Don't assume they do not have time for you. If a friend can’t be there for you all the time but still makes an effort to keep in touch and help you out occasionally, let them know you appreciate them. You might say, "I know we used to spend more time together, and I'm not physically able to go out as much. I really appreciate how flexible you have been to still hang out with me."
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Understand that your friends’ lack of support isn’t personal. Stand up for yourself when people say insensitive things. Revise your expectations.