Home support for families for parents parents mental health

All parents want to protect their children and keep them safe and so it is understandably devastating if your child is diagnosed with a serious illness. By taking care of your mental well-being, you are better able to cope and better able to support your ill child and any siblings they may have.

Here are ten tips that may help if you are struggling in the shadow of serious childhood illness:

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Ten tips that may help if you are struggling in the shadow of serious childhood illness

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    Don’t be afraid or ashamed to ask for help, for yourself as well as for your children.

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    Share your worries and seek support with professionals, such as a Rainbow Trust Family Support Worker.

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    Allow yourself to accept offers of help and support from friends and family members.

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    Ask all the questions you need to of medical professionals to feel well-informed and in control at a time of uncertainty.

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    Take care of yourself; try to eat well and get enough sleep. This will help you feel more able to cope.

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    You are not alone. It can be a great support to talk to others with a similar experience.

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    Accept when you feel scared, powerless, angry or even happy. Whatever you are feeling - it is OK.

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    Allow yourself a break. Go for a long walk, grab a coffee, meet up with friends. Make time for yourself.

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    There will come a time when things do get better, even if it doesn’t feel as though there will.

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    Even if it’s just a small thing, having something positive to focus on will help you feel there are things to be thankful for.

How Rainbow Trust supports families with a seriously ill child

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£5 could provide bereavement support to help a family cope with the death of a child.