For Kids
Staying in the hospital can make your life seem very different. You may not feel or act like you did before you went to the hospital. That is OK, lots of kids feel this way after coming home from the hospital. It might take a while, every kid is different, but you will start to feel better in time.

Everybody is different, each kid has a different experience after leaving the hospital. Most kids feel normal after being home from the hospital for a while. Sometimes kids need a little help from parents and doctors to feel better when they are home.

After being sick you might feel:
• Cranky
• Not able to sleep
• Jealous of your brothers and sisters
• Sad
• Scared
• Shy
• Worried
• Want to hug their parents more
• Sleep different than before

Some kids have bad dreams about being in the hospital. Some kids don’t want to talk about the hospital. If you are scared about the way that you feel, talk to an adult. Like your mom, dad, grandparent, teacher, friend, or whoever makes you happy. Talking about your feelings might make you feel better and help things be OK again.

Staying in the hospital for a long time can also change your body. Many kids notice changes in their muscles.

Your muscles and body might feel:
• Tired
• Weak
• Numb (Can't feel them)

The changes depend on what type of sickness caused you to go to the hospital and the types of tests that were done. These changes usually get better over time and eventually go away.

Remember: It's OK!
  • It is going to take time for you and your family to feel normal again, this is OK.
  • It is OK to feel scared, angry or confused after you have been sick in the hospital, these feelings will get better and go away over time.
  • It is OK to have lots of questions- ask your parents, teachers, or your doctor or nurse when you have a question.
  • It is OK to tell your parents if you feel like you are not getting enough or too much attention from them.
  • It is OK to have fun with your friends! Doing these things might help you feel better.
  • It is normal to have nightmares or to try and avoid doctors, or other things that remind you of being in the hospital. These feelings and dreams should get better and go away over time.

Ways to help yourself feel better:
  • Do your normal things- If your body feels good enough, keep going to sports or music lessons, anything that you would normally do before you got sick.
  • Have fun- If your body feels good enough, see your friends, go to a movie, play with your brother or sister.
  • Talk about your feelings, let people know how you feel and what you need. Do you want to see your  friends? Do you feel angry or scared? Do you want some alone time? Let your family, friends, teachers, and doctor know how you feel and what you need.


The information provided on this website is not meant to diagnose or treat any mental or physical health condition. You should always consult your child’s pediatrician to develop the best care plan for your child. If you feel that your child or anyone in your family is having trouble coping after a critical illness contact your doctor right away.