Self-Care For Parents Of Chronically Ill Children

Self-Care for Parents of Chronically Ill Children

As much as parents would want to keep their kids in good health, there’s nothing much they can do when one of their little ones develops a chronic condition. Although there are doctors and nurses who can take care of their sick child, they still need to look after their kid at all times. Their child will need them more than ever.

If your child has just been diagnosed with a serious ailment, you might find yourself going through a series of overwhelming emotions – and this is totally understandable. You might experience feelings of denial and frustration during the first few days, guilt and anger, and maybe even numbness or emptiness later on.

As long as you’re able to help yourself manage such feelings, you’ll be fine. Keep in mind that you should always be in your best condition when caring for your child. Once you’re done attending to your own needs, it’ll be easier for you to do the same for your son or daughter.

The Importance of Self-Care When Caring for Your Child

While some people might think that it’s selfish to focus on yourself first before your ailing child, you’d actually do yourself and your child a huge favor if you do so. If you’re undergoing extreme stress, you’d find it rather difficult to look after your child and manage your everyday duties at the same time. You’d be emotionally and mentally drained, which means that you might not be able to provide your child the warmth and affection they long for.

There’s also the possibility that your physical health might be adversely affected if you fail to make time for yourself. If that happens, your regular routine might be disrupted even more, giving you additional burden to handle.

For these reasons, don’t be afraid to take as much time you’ll need to take care of yourself. Don’t compare yourself with other parents who may appear to be doing quite well even if they’re facing difficult situations. Each one of us reacts differently to a given situation. Moreover, you’ll never know what’s really happening behind the curtains.

If you feel like pausing to rest for a bit, do it. Do the things you’d often do to calm your mind and body – meditate, take a walk and enjoy the scenery, read an inspirational book, listen to soothing music, or watch a family video. Before you know it, you’re back on your feet and more than ready to give your child the TLC they need.

Self-Care Strategies

It’s important to know that everyone has their own unique ways of handling tough situations. What works well for some parents may not be convenient for you and your needs. With that said, it’s best that you keep an open mind and try out different self-care habits.

If you are a parent of a chronically ill child, here are some self-care tips you may want to consider exploring:

• Engage in activities that make you forget about your problems. Watch a funny film, enjoy a meal at your favorite restaurant, use art as an outlet – anything to keep your mind distracted from negative thoughts. A little me-time can make all the difference.
• Create a list of your friends and relatives who can assist you. Since you and your spouse may find it difficult to juggle your responsibilities, it’s a good idea to have a list ready whenever someone offers to help.
• Join a support group. It’s always a good idea to talk to people who are also going through a situation similar to yours since it gives you the opportunity to seek encouragement and get valuable advice. Most communities have support groups that hold regular meetings, so be sure to check out yours.
• Make a schedule for yourself. To function as an effective caregiver to your sick child, you need to get your life in order, and setting your priorities straight is the first step. Create your own calendar and write down all the important tasks you’ll need to accomplish. Be sure to include recreational activities.
• Start a journal. Writing down your emotions can be a great way to release all the pent-up frustrations you’ve been feeling lately. It can also help you monitor the progress you’ve made in terms of coping with your child’s condition.

Get Rid of an Unneeded Clunker for a Worthy Purpose

If you happen to own a car or any other type of vehicle that you no longer use, consider handing it over to us at Kids Car Donations. That way, you will not only get to dispose of it for free, but you will also get to play a significant role in restoring the health and even saving the lives of the sick and needy children in your community. We will auction off your donated vehicle and use the proceeds to help our nonprofit partners in providing support services, including medical assistance, to these children.

Your charitable contribution will also entitle you to receive a top tax deduction in the next tax season.

You can make your donation now by calling us at 866-634-8395 or by filling out our online donation form. We accept vehicle donations anywhere in the United States since we have vehicle donation programs in all 50 states.

For more information, check out our FAQs page. For inquiries, you may call us anytime at our toll-free hotline or send us a message online.

Make a Difference in Lives of Ailing Kids

Show that you care for the sick and needy kids in your community. Call us at 866-634-8395 and make a difference in their lives with your car donation!