Information via accrediting organization American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Approximately 35.3 million Americans, young and old, are limited in their daily functioning because of a chronic mental health or physical health condition. For the vast majority of these individuals, family is their first line of healthcare. Whether the member is a child with cystic fibrosis or an adolescent with diabetes, or a parent with multiple sclerosis or a grandparent with Alzheimer’s disease, it is the family, first and foremost, that cares for an ill loved one.
One member’s chronic illness influences the lives of everyone in the family. Roles and routines change. It may seem as if the medical professionals that care for the ill family member become part of the family. The demands of caregiving must be negotiated. Family members’ emotions may be on a continuous roller-coaster ride. On the other hand, families may come together and grow closer. Their lives may take on new meaning. They may find rewards they had not expected on their journey through illness. The only certain thing is that chronic illness is a family experience, one that is shared by all.
There are several ways that chronic illness can influence family life:
At any time during the life of a chronic illness, family members or the family as a whole may need support from a trained professional, such as a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT). Signs to watch for include:
In any of these circumstances, the family’s primary care provider can act as a resource for referring the family to a family therapist who is experienced with illness and collaboration with medical professionals.
Families seeking help can expect a variety of useful interventions:
Text provided by David Seaburn, PhD.
Information via accrediting organization American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
PHONE
(504) 452-5937
EMAIL
info@maisonvieneworleans.com
LOCATION
1799 Stumpf Boulevard
Building 5, Suite 1
Terrytown, LA 70056