Caring for a child with CF

Looking after you

Be kind to yourself; here are a few ideas that can often help.

• Don’t be hard on yourself. Acknowledge that you can only do so much, and allow yourself to make mistakes and forget things occasionally. You aren’t going to get it perfect every day
• Use positive self-talk. Focus on what you achieve each day and the quality of life your family has.
• Celebrate the wins.
• Take time out. This will make you more resilient.
• Practice relaxation or mindfulness.
• Make sure you get enough rest, eat healthily and exercise – they’re all good for you and great role modelling.
• Acknowledge that you can only do so much, and allow yourself to make mistakes and forget things occasionally.

Taking care of your mental health

Good mental health is an important part of treating CF, both for people living with CF and the people around them. Mental health impacts on physical health, and conversely physical health also affects mental health. You can’t treat one in isolation from the other.

Share your feelings with someone you trust, and don’t be afraid to show your emotions. Be aware that difficult events may set off memories, sadness and anxiety

It’s normal to experience feelings of anxiety or depression. It’s also important to ask for help and talk about how you are feeling. Tell people who offer to help exactly what you need – a shoulder to cry on, a helping hand, or making meals. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or accept it as it comes.

If your feel that you need to explore options for professional help to work through intense emotions and overcome obstacles, visit Beyond Blue.

Coping skills

Over the years you will have learned a wide array of coping strategies and styles. Now it’s important to tap into the resilience and resources you already have to cope with the challenges of caring for someone with CF. Your coping strategies can vary widely, from having a coffee with a friend to reading a celebrity magazine or seeking out professional help.

You might have used exercise to cope in the past but suddenly find you have very little time for it. However, including exercise in your weekly routine may be an important part of your CF care. Tap into the resilience and resources that you already have to help you cope with the challenges.

More information

Connect with another community member - sometimes it’s great just to talk to someone who know what you are going through. Our peer support program can connect you with others from the CF community who share similar experiences.