When your child is diagnosed with cerebral palsy, there is a lot to take on board. From healthcare to childcare and much more, you need to figure things out that you previously hadn’t planned for. It’s fine to feel overwhelmed. But it is important to note that there is support out there if needed. If this is caused by complications during birth, you may also be entitled to financial support as a result.
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Keep On Top of Treatments
First and foremost, you need to keep on top of cerebral palsy treatments. Your child may need various forms of therapy directly after their diagnosis, which will likely continue in the future. Early intervention can be crucial for their long-term movement abilities. So it is vital that you take action as soon as possible. Treatment could include speech therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. Finding a CP specialist that you trust is vital.
Help Them Be More Active
Promoting an active lifestyle is important in terms of physical and mental well-being. You want to focus on activities that use muscles in different ways, so try to find suitable activities that they enjoy each day. Through regular activity, muscles grow stronger, which can reduce the chances of contractures and muscle spasms.
Be Optimistic About the Future
While your child might be slightly more restricted in what they can do compared to other children their age, this should not stop them from achieving their dreams. Help them realise all of the things that they can do on their own or with support. If you are positive, they will likely be the same – keep a focus on their mental health and seek support where needed.
Utilize Support Networks
You won’t need to go through this journey alone – from nonprofits to healthcare support groups, there are plenty of resources available to you. It is helpful to get to know parents going through the same thing – you might make new friendships or learn new things that could benefit your child. Additionally, consider help with caregiving such as a nurse or respite caregivers. Finally, do not shy away from asking friends and family for support.
There is a lot to take on when your child is diagnosed with cerebral palsy. There will be a lot of things that you will need to figure out, and it can be a stressful and upsetting time, but the information in this post should help you realize that there is always support available to you, and it is not a journey that you have to go through alone.
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