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Help other family members cope with cerebral palsy

Healthwise
By Debby Golonka, MPH

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You can help family members cope with their fears and concerns about cerebral palsy by:

  • Talking about cerebral palsy and how it affects you. Be open and honest about your hopes and concerns. Encourage others to talk about their feelings.
  • Asking your other children to help with the care of the affected child as much as they are able. Allow them to refuse to help if they do not want to.
  • Encouraging all family members to learn about cerebral palsy.
  • Pursuing your own interests and friendships. Encourage others in your family to do the same.

If you think that you or members of your family might benefit from counseling, ask your health professional for recommendations.

Credits

Author Debby Golonka, MPH
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Louis Pellegrino, MD - Developmental Pediatrics
Last Updated October 14, 2008
Last Updated: 10/14/2008