How To Help Children And Youth Whose Parent Is Hospitalized
Serious Illness; Long Term Illness
Having a seriously ill parent can be very hard on children or youth who feel their own and the family’s anxiety and worry. They want to help but can’t. This can lead to distrust of feelings, love and relationships. Without help, it can lead to children or youth being self-centered, withdrawn, fearful, angry, anxious, depressed and suspicious. These qualities can be harmful to self-confidence and successful engagement in learning. Early help can make growing up a lot easier for children & youth. They can have more full and successful adult lives.
|
First, We Would Investigate |
Second, We Would Investigate |
For Long Term Support |
|
|
|
|
On Our Own We Would Try: • Pets • Bedtime Stories and Chats • Wholesome Pleasures • Back Rubs and Foot Massages • Replace sodas, juices, sugars, fats, fast foods with water, veggies, whole grains, nuts, protein, fruit, slow food • Long Walks/Hikes • Nature • Less or No TV, Movies, Video/Computer Games. |
|
For Parents: • Many hospitals have social workers and therapists who can be very helpful to children & youth with hospitalized parents. • Involving friends and families can also help the child or youth get energy. • The adults in the family need to get emotional support so they can support the children or youth. • Caretakers need to take very good care of themselves to avoid burnout. • Getting respite care is very important for everyone. |