Ignore them if you don't feel like engaging. Your medical history is personal. You don't owe anyone an explanation. You can focus on your own well - being and surround yourself with people who see you for who you are now, not just your past medical struggles. There's no need to let their comments get to you.
Perhaps they are trying to show sympathy in a wrong way. They might not realize that reducing your medical history to a 'sad story' is disrespectful to your strength and the journey you've had. Your medical history is complex and has many elements, not just the hardships. It could include the medical professionals you've met, the knowledge you've gained about your body, and the support system you've developed. So when they call it a sad story, they are oversimplifying it.
You could start by showing empathy and saying something like, 'I'm so sorry you're going through this.'
Share more about the topic of the story if you feel like it. Maybe add some interesting details that you didn't include before. You could also be a bit humorous in your response to make the conversation more fun and engaging. For instance, if she commented on your pet in the story, you could tell a funny anecdote about your pet.
You can simply say 'Sure, I liked it!' This is a straightforward and positive response that shows your approval.
Well, it depends on your relationship with that person. If it's a really close friend, you can be more casual and say something like 'Hey, saw you reacted to my story. What did you think?' This opens up the conversation for them to share their thoughts. If it's someone you're not as close to but still in your close friends list, you might be a bit more formal and say 'Thank you for your reaction to my story. I appreciate it.' And then you can see if they want to continue the conversation further.
Just listen attentively and show your interest. Maybe ask a few relevant questions to show you're engaged.
If your boss persists, it might be a sign of a very unprofessional and inappropriate work environment. You could consider reporting this behavior to a higher - up or the HR department. For example, you can say 'I'm sorry, but this is not an appropriate topic at work. I would like to focus on work - related matters.'
First, she needs to recognize her own feelings and not dismiss them. Then, depending on the relationship with the person involved, she can take different actions. If it's a stranger, she can simply walk away. If it's someone she knows well, like a family member or colleague, she can communicate clearly. She might say something like 'I found that story really inappropriate and it made me uncomfortable. Please don't share such things with me in the future.' By being assertive, she can protect her own emotional state.
You could offer a comforting hug or kind words to show support.
Tell him firmly 'no' and that it's not okay. Then explain to him that our bodies are private parts.