Strategies for coping with the diagnosis of a chronic illness

[Traveller]

I found joining a support group for parents in exactly the same position to be extremely helpful. For me it was the national deaf children's society, and it gave me a chance to speak to other parenta who had been where I was and come through the other end. I also spoke to adults who were diagnosed as young children which was a brilliant reassurance for me. They also helped me go through the grieving process because when you find out your child has a long term illness or disability there is often a period of profound grief as the diagnosis sinks in.

I also found being very proactive helped me. I learnt everything I could, asked about a million questions, and became an advocate for my child again. Big hugs, this cant be an easy time for you

[Starlet]

Wow! I couldn't believe when I logged on - there were so many replies! Thank you!

Thank emc2 - I will look in to Crohn's and Collitis and try to find a Support Group. I am keen to find one that has parents of kids with the condition.

You are right Traveller about feeling like greiving. I am keen to 'move on' from greiving to coping!!
Brigsey's girl -thank you for your reply as well. I was thinking about what you were saying about my negative thinking and I think I should have a positive statement planned to repeat to myself when I start thinking the negative type of thoughts . Maybe I can re-program myself!

And Thank you Cheshire, I will have a browse in the IBD Support section.

Thank you for such thoughtful and promt replies! I felt really comforted to read them.
Starlet