Children and adolescents respond differently to cancer diagnosis, depending on age, development and personality. However, some feelings are common in children of the same age, and therefore there are also strategies that parents can implement to help their child cope with cancer. .
Overcoming cancer is possible, but the arrival of the news is not always received in the best way, besides that treatment has many side effects involved, however, some strategies can help you overcome this delicate phase in a smoother and more comfortable way.
- Children of this age are afraid of being separated from their parents.
- Afraid and upset that they have to undergo painful medical procedures and may have tantrums.
- Screams.
- Beatings or bites.
- And can also have nightmares.
- Return to ancient behaviors such as wetting the bed or sucking their finger and refusing to cooperate.
- Resist orders or interact with others.
Children this age may be upset that they have to miss school and not see their friends and classmates, feel guilty about thinking they may have caused cancer, and worried that the cancer will get it. Children between the age of 6 and 12 can also show anger and sadness at the thought that they have fallen ill and that their lives have changed.
Teenagers are upset that they have to miss school and stop being with their friends, as well as feel that they have no freedom or independence and that they need the support of their friends or teachers, who are not always present. they have cancer or try to think positively and at another time, they rebel against parents, doctors and treatments.
Parents also suffer with this diagnosis with their children and, therefore, to take good care of them, they must take care of their own health. Fear, insecurity, guilt, and anger can be alleviated with the help of a psychologist, but family support is also important to renew strength. Therefore, it is recommended that parents reserve time during the week to rest and discuss this and other topics.