Resources for Caregivers and Children Dealing with a Critical Illness
Talking with a child about a critical illness can be a difficult task. It can be hard to find the words to explain medical conditions to children, and the emotions that come with it can make the conversation even more challenging.
You don’t have to tackle this situation alone. UNC Hospitals offers resources and support services for caregivers to help support you and your children in dealing with these situations.
Internal Resources
At UNC Hospitals, the Child Life and Recreational Therapy department offers support for siblings of children who are facing an extended hospital stay for critical injury or illness. Supportive resources are also available for children of adult patients who are admitted for a critical injury or illness. To get connected, ask your care team for a referral or send an email to uncchildrenssiblings@unchealth.unc.edu.
External Resources
A diagnosis of a critical illness can cause a lot of changes, questions and uncertainty. It can be a lot to take on as a caregiver when a critical illness affects a child or someone close to them. These guides offer advice on dealing with these situations and can help you feel more prepared.
Trauma-Related Resources
When children experience the critical illness or injury of someone who is close to them, they can have intense emotional and physical reactions. Trauma reactions are not uncommon for children in times of uncertainty and change. We recommend these resources when supporting children through a traumatic event.
