For Parents
Caring for a very ill child is a very stressful experience for the entire family. Taking care of yourself and your emotional needs during and after this stressful time will help your whole family adjust to life again after the hospital.

It is normal to feel anxious about your children’s health after they have been released from the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). You may feel concerned that you are unable to take care of your children’s health needs without assistance or that your child may become very ill again. These feelings are normal; and it is important to remember that you are not alone. Many parents and families have dealt with the serious illness of a child at some point.

Things You Can Do To Take Care of Yourself:
  1. Make time for yourself:  Exercise, sleep, read, write, see friends- whatever you usually do to take care of yourself.
  2. Use your support system: Connect with friends and family.
  3. Ask for help when and if you need it: Need help with meals, yard work, errands, or picking kids up from school?
  4. Try and get back to normal routines- Whatever was normal for you and your family before the PICU.
  5. Note your own feelings or reactions, and be patient with yourself. 
  6. Be aware of your own problematic coping or stress responses. Seek help if you are having trouble reducing stress, getting back to normal routines, and/or are using harmful coping mechanisms like drugs or alcohol or not getting enough sleep or food.

Places to look for help:
  • You healthcare provider
  • Spiritual or religious leader
  • Counselor/therapist
  • Family/friends
  • Your child’s school counselor or doctor may be able to recommend therapy or counseling resources.​