Hope and Cope
Psychosocial and Education Program
The Hope and Cope Psychosocial and Education Program is here to support young people and their families manage the challenges of their medical journey, make the most of their strengths, and ultimately...to Celebrate Life!
Taking care of yourself as you care for your child
Caring for a child undergoing cancer treatment can be emotionally and physically demanding for parents, but also requires them to prioritize their own wellness. The stress can be overwhelming, but having a support system can help parents express their feelings and find ways to cope. By addressing emotional, social, and physical well-being, parents can better support their child throughout their journey.
Our team is here to help you with your physical, emotional, psychological, spiritual and practical needs.
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Our family support team includes:
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Walking the Journey Together
The diagnosis and treatment of childhood cancer or blood disorders can be challenging for the entire family. The Hope and Cope Psychosocial and Education Program at Children’s of Alabama is here to provide emotional support and services once your child is diagnosed. We use a family-centered care approach in which the family and healthcare providers work together to best meet the patient’s needs.
| The Hope and Cope Psychosocial and Education Program offers the following activities and programs to decrease stress during hospital or clinic visits: | ||
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Overcoming Barriers to Taking Care of Yourself
Your child’s diagnosis with a life-threatening illness increases the demands placed on all members of the family. It is challenging to balance caring for your child in the hospital in addition to other family, work, and community responsibilities. For this reason, using self-care activities during your child’s medical treatment journey is very important.
Barriers to Engaging in Self-Care:It is often helpful to acknowledge current obstacles to self-care before setting new goals or intentions. Barriers may include: |
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Time:
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Difficulty asking for support:
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| Hard to be in two places at one time: Caregivers may feel guilty for not being at home with their other children. |
Not taking time to deal with your feelings: Your child can tell when you are worried or upset. It is helpful to share your worries with your partner, family, or friends and not keep things bottled up inside. Reach out to the psychologist or social worker on the Hope and Cope Family Support Team to help you with any difficulties you are experiencing. |
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| Being hard on yourself: Feeling like you have to be “super parent or caregiver” and handle things by yourself; as well as be with your hospitalized child all the time and not take breaks for yourself. |
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Above all remember that your child’s health depends on how well you take care of your own health and emotional well-being
