People cope with stressful situations in different ways. What works for one person may not be helpful to another. We hope some of these suggestions will help you get through this difficult time.
Tips for coping when a family member or friend is injured
Write important information down in a journal or notebook
You can use this to keep track of questions you want to ask members of the health care team. It may also be useful to share with the patient.
Establish a phone tree
Name one person for family and friends to call for information on the patient’s condition.
Rotate family visits
If you need or want to leave the hospital, you may want to have someone stay with the patient so you can feel reassured the patient is not alone.
When someone offers to help, accept the offer
Try to be specific about how this person can help.
Express your feelings
Discuss your positive and negative feelings with family members, friends, and staff.
Be kind to yourself
Take time for a walk or have a meal with a friend. Also, try to leave the hospital for a meal or restful night of sleep. It is very important to take care of yourself. By taking care of your own needs, you will be more prepared to make good decisions and support your loved one.
The contents of this website are for information purposes only and not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not rely on the information provided for medical decision making and should direct all questions regarding medical matters to their physician or other health care provider. Use of this information does not create an express or implied physician-patient relationship.