Psychological complications of chronic illness in children

The diagnosis of a chronic illness can be traumatic for certain children and their parents. As many as one in every five children and parents experience severe stress at the moment of diagnosis and could benefit from additional care.

A chronic illness is defined as “a long-term ailment that can be managed but not cured”. Asthma, diabetes, cancer, and organ failure are all examples of chronic illnesses in children.

The majority of children and their families adjust successfully to life with a chronic condition. Some, however, have a more difficult time coping. Children with earlier behavioural or psychological difficulties, as well as children from households with greater levels of conflict, are more likely to have adjustment problems.

Here are some expert tips to help children and families who are struggling to cope with medical sickness.

Adjustment during the diagnostic process

When a child is diagnosed with a chronic illness for the first time, all families experience a mix of shock, denial, anger, anxiety, and worry. “Why me?” children may wonder. “Why did this happen to my child?” parents will wonder. These are common reactions to a diagnosis, and they normally fade with time.

Many parents may feel guilty and concerned that they contributed to their child’s illness. It is critical to remember that no one caused the sickness, and there was probably certainly nothing anyone could have done to avoid it.

Following a diagnosis, families discover that they must make numerous modifications to their daily routines in order to effectively manage the illness. Children may begin to perceive themselves differently, causing parents to face a new set of concerns.

Psychological challenges

Children with chronic illnesses may face the following psychological challenges:

• Continuing concerns about the condition and its long-term consequences
• Fear of death, hospitalisation, or medical procedures
• Continuous melancholy, rage, irritation, or moodiness
• Changes in self-esteem, physical attractiveness problems, and body image issues
• Issues with behaviour
• Social challenges, particularly being mocked

If the symptoms above persist for longer than a week or two, you should consult with a paediatric health psychologist or another mental health specialist.

Parenting a chronically ill child

Parents may experience tremendous stress as a result of parenting a child with a chronic condition. It is critical for parents to take care of themselves as well as their children. To handle daily stress, seek assistance from family, friends, community organisations, or mental health specialists as needed.

Caregivers’ parenting styles may also shift as a result of a chronic sickness. Because of their increased concerns about their child’s fragility, parents may become overprotective. They may also become more hesitant to impose limits on a child’s behaviour, especially if the youngster has been hospitalised or treated for an extended period of time. In general, parents can assist their child in coping by:

• Setting the same clear, consistent boundaries for conduct as they would for any other child
• Expressing warmth and support
• Nurturing as normal a life for your child as possible
• Being open in communication. Allow your child to communicate thoughts, feelings, preferences, issues, and concerns about illness management honestly and listen without judgment
• Encouraging your child to spend time with their friends