This is from Dr. Lindsay Cockburn, another audiologist who sees parents of children with hearing loss on a daily basis. I love her tips on reducing anxiety for parents!
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You’re doing amazing! Just wanted to say that in case no one else had a chance to today 🤗🤗 "Worrying does not take away tomorrow's TROUBLES, it takes away today's PEACE."
❤️ It's harder on you than them- this is your child's "normal" they do not know any other way of being. It's not your normal so you may be feeling the stress of the unknown, but they just feel like a kid.
❤️ Practice stress management - you may not have time for yoga or meditation, but everyone has time for 3 deep breaths or a little stretch. Journaling, exercising, talking to a friend or loved one, and listening to relaxing music or an inspiring podcast can all be very helpful.
❤️ Ask for and accept help - no one can do it alone! Involve extended family members in therapy and early intervention. Re-divide your household responsibilities with your partner. Outsource and hire help if you can. Just because you "can" do it all on your own doesn't mean that you should.
❤️ Find a support group- online and offline -this can be a huge help! Seeing families that are further along than you, helping families that are just starting out, and being able to share a common experience that can feel isolating are all so important!
❤️ Practice self care- this is not just a face mask and a bubble bath. In order to help your child you must first take care of yourself. Rest, sleep, nutrition, making time for things that are just for you, and saying "no" to people and things that are getting in the way of those basic needs are all a part of self care. Remember everyday to play, laugh, and be silly with your child- it's good for you!
❤️ See how far you've come- watch old videos of your child, write down all of your personal and family accomplishments over the past month or year, and celebrate wins big and small. Day to day it may not feel like much progress, but when you see how far you've come you will get the strength to keep going!
