When a child is seriously ill, here are 5 ways for parents to strengthen themselves

Stress and anxiety are some of the emotions that come to the mind of parents when they hear that their child is diagnosed with a serious illness. This reaction is very common, considering that severe illness can have serious consequences. So, how should parents strengthen themselves to face a seriously ill child?

The way parents strengthen themselves when a child is seriously ill

Facing a diagnosis of a serious illness is not easy. However, don't let those emotions keep you from thinking clearly. Here are some steps you can take as a parent to strengthen yourself and support your child's recovery:

1. Overcoming negative emotions that arise

Most parents will feel guilty and angry when they find out that their child is diagnosed with a serious disease. However, the best way to deal with these negative emotions is to face them.

Accepting everything is the first step for parents to strengthen themselves when the child is diagnosed with a disease.

A study found that anxiety and depression in parents of children with cancer can decrease if parents play an active role in the treatment process.

On the other hand, parents who reject reality and avoid situations like this have a higher level of stress.

2. Looking for as much information as possible about the disease

Parents' participation is very important when assisting children who are seriously ill. However, wrong actions can endanger your baby so that it hinders his recovery.

So, make sure that you and your partner have provided a variety of information about related diseases. Understand every symptom that appears, medication, treatment, to abstain from eating if any.

Look for all of this information from reliable sources. Especially from specialist doctors, nurses, website official health institutions, as well as books that specifically discuss the disease.

3. Planning treatment

For parents, strengthening yourself when a child is sick is something that must be done. Because, that way you can also more calmly plan treatment.

When a child is seriously ill, a treatment schedule is very important. Your child may need to undergo a variety of tests and be on a lot of medication.

Make a complete plan that contains all things related to the child's treatment. For example, the schedule of regular visits to the doctor, the drugs that must be taken and the time, to emergency care if the child's condition deteriorates at any time.

4. Seek support

Dealing with severe childhood illness is certainly not easy if it is done only with a partner. Therefore, seek professional support from medical personnel who handle your child's case and psychologists if necessary.

You can also look for places to share in the community, foundations, or fellow parents who are facing similar cases. Their presence is not only useful as a source of information, but also so that you don't feel alone.

That way, parents can strengthen themselves when a child is diagnosed with a serious illness.

5. Doing things that are happy

Family happiness does not end when the child is diagnosed with a serious illness. There are many ways that you can do to maintain happiness and mood good in the family, such as:

• Take time to relax for a moment between your child's treatment schedule
• Doing fun activities with family, for example celebrating birthdays together
• Encourage your child to do activities he enjoys
• Chat often with your child to understand it more

Every parent has a different way to strengthen themselves when a child is diagnosed with a serious illness. If the above steps don't work, you can always find other ways to deal with this situation. Sharing can be one powerful way.

It's natural to feel tired, because caring for a child with a serious illness is a long process. However, as long as you keep your mind clear and focus on treating the baby, you will gradually be able to adapt.

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