Coping with Cerebral Palsy

Parents of a newly diagnosed child with cerebral palsy have to deal with very complex and varied emotions. Even with advances in modern medicine to benefit the child, the emotional wellbeing of parents is frequently neglected by doctors. Should this become an issue, a visit to a therapist (preferably an analyst, and not a behaviorist) may prove helpful.

Sometimes raising a child with cerebral palsy (or any similar illness) can cause martial issues like fighting or guilt. It is very important for parents to resolve these conflicts, and if they can't, to see somone qualified who can help them, such as a social worker or psychologist. Help begins with parents, as parents who accept their child will raise a child who accepts himself.

Ask your child's neurologist or physical therapist if they are aware of any specific support groups or resources in your community. Many times outside of large urban centers, these are held at hospitals themselves.

Some physicians feel that if a child can sit up by the age of 2 or stand by the age of 3, then the child will have a good chance of walking unassisted one day.

If the child expresses a need for therapy him or himself, or seems unusually unhappy, they may feel like they're a burden or alone or that their condition is somehow their fault. There are support groups and therapists available for the children themselves, both of which can go a long way in giving the child the most productive life possible.