The tasks, obligations and emotions related to having a child with a serious illness can strain even a strong marriage and family. Divorced or separated parents should try to put their personal differences aside in order to help their child. Single parents may need even more support from the extended family and community.
Here are some suggestions to help you adapt and develop your own coping skills:
- Changes in family roles will occur. The family member who is the caregiver and the member who is breadwinner may need to change, especially if health insurance is an employment issue. No single role is more important than the other. It will help to include each other and other family members in the everyday care of your child.
- Everyone copes in a different way. Try to honor and accept those differences. Make time for yourselves as a couple, even if its just 10 minutes a day.
- Gather information. Knowledge is critical to access expert care and ensure quality of life.
- Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or imagery.
- Use your sense of humor. Studies show that laughter releases stress and improves the immune system.
- Expect that there will be stressful times. Anxiety is normal under the circumstances.
- Prioritize your worries. While it is natural to focus on smaller, less frightening annoyances, save your energy for the big issues.
- Find and use a support system. It may not necessarily be your immediate family.
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