“The child who is diagnosed with a serious and chronic medical illness is at greater risk for developing emotional problems. Unlike a child who has a temporary medical condition such as the flu, the child with a chronic illness must cope with knowing that the disease is permanent, incurable and may even get worse with time” – American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Having chronic pain or illness is challenging at any age; however, kids experience unique challenges as a result of dealing with chronic pain and illness. They struggle to understand why they are dealing with illness and may believe it their fault. They may resist parents who try to overly protect or pamper them and they may hide their sickness from peers worrying that they will be misunderstood or made fun of.
Children and adolescents with chronic pain and illness face the simultaneous and potentially overwhelming tasks of navigating the stages of development while managing chronic issues and all that comes with their sickness—appointments, treatments, medications, etc. These kids may feel confused, anxious or sad. And almost all of them struggle with feeling different from their peers.
Mental health counseling provides the support children and their families need as they learn how to live their best lives possible with pain and illness. Ensuring that these children and adolescents have access to psychotherapy services helps them manage their emotions, learn and implement coping skills and prevent the development of deeper emotional issues.
If your child is dealing with chronic pain or illness we can help. Please call Blue Sky Family Counseling and Coaching today at 704-237-0230 to make an appointment.
