We know how hard you have worked to get ready for your child’s discharge home. You may be excited but also a little bit worried about taking care of your child at home. This is normal and your health care team is always here to support you and help you prepare for home. It is also important to make sure to care for yourself at home. Families have found it very helpful to meet and speak with other families who have children with tracheostomies. These families can be a great support and can help answer your questions about home life. If this is something you might like please let your health care provider know so this can be arranged.
There are a few things you can do to help cope with all of the new changes when at home:
- Take some time for yourself. This might include planning for quiet time, continuing hobbies or spending time with family and friends. Keeping a journal can help also.
- Make sure to talk to your close family and friends so they can support you when at home. This may include arranging for visitors to come to your home.
- Take care of yourself, which includes eating regularly and sleeping as much as you can.
- You might find it helpful to look into online support groups or websites where parents and caregivers of children with tracheostomies can discuss their experiences.
- Ask for help when you need it. Your friends, family and health-care team are there to help. Please do not hesitate to contact your health-care team if you are unsure of something or have any questions.
- Looking into respite care for your child so that you may have some time to rest.
If you are having trouble coping or you are feeling that you need to talk to someone about how you are feeling, please reach out to your health-care team.