Coping as a family
Pulmonary hypertension is a life-changing experience for every member of the family. Ongoing adjustment to the “new normal” can be difficult for children with pulmonary hypertension, as well as their parents, siblings and other family members. But by facing pulmonary hypertension as a family and supporting one another along the way, your loved ones will be better equipped to cope with the changes it brings.
Read on for tips from professionals and other families coping with pulmonary hypertension.
For You
Coping as a Parent
Prioritizing your own emotional health after your child is diagnosed with PH can make you more capable of helping the rest of your family cope. Tend to your feelings and needs first
For Your Children
Helping Your Child with PH Cope
Whether your family has been living with PH for a few weeks or several years, it’s normal to have lots of questions about raising a child with a chronic illness. Learn how to help your child with PH cope
Helping Your 2- to 5-Year Old Cope During a Medical Crisis
A medical crisis can be a frightening experience for both you and your child who has PH. Get tips on helping your child stay calm and communicate clearly
Talk About PH with Your Children: A Parent’s Perspective
Pam shares her experience helping her children cope with PH in their family. Read more
Helping Healthy Siblings Cope
PH can affect everyone in the family, including healthy children. Find ways to help healthy kids cope
Balancing Act: Parents Weigh in on Sibling Issues
It can be difficult to balance the needs of your child who has PH with the needs of their siblings. Get tips from other parents
Parenting PH Kids & Siblings
Dawn Butler is the mom of 6-year-old PH patient Stella and 11-year-old Simon. Dawn is also the support group leader of the new Philadelphia Pediatric PH Support Group. PHA connected with Dawn recently to talk about how she balances the needs of a child with PH with the needs of a sibling and what she hopes to bring to her role as a support group leader. Read more
For You and Your Partner
Co-Parenting a Child with PH
When you’re co-parenting a child with PH, communication can be critical. Learn how to encourage an open dialogue with your partner
Caring For Your Relationship
When life is the most hectic and stressful is when you are in the greatest need of your partner’s affection and support. Keep your relationship strong with these tips
Talking About Your Child’s PH: A Parent’s Story
Dianna shares her experience helping her significant other understand their daughter’s PH. Read about what worked for her
PHA’s psycho-social resources for caregivers are made possible through support from from the Medtronic Foundation, Novartis Pharmaceuticals and the Jansen Family Foundation. |