As a father juggling work and home life, caring for a sick child in a hospital can be especially challenging.
Perhaps you feel as if you should put your needs on hold until your child is better, or that you need to be at the hospital all the time, but this is the wrong approach. During a medical emergency in which your child is hospitalized, you’ll need to also take care of yourself to avoid burning out and adopt a positive role model to stay strong under pressure.
Take Care of Yourself During a Family Crisis
In many cultures, including our own, fathers are regarded as the "rock" of the family. They need to be. Fathers need to maintain their health and well-being during a crisis so that they can be there for their partners and children. They need to better manage their stress levels to benefit their entire family.
To appear centered and in control, you might have to step outside your comfort zone. For instance, rather than just randomly dabbing on a cheap aftershave, learn how to apply perfume on a man. It’s actually almost an art because even a subtle musk scent goes a long way when applying an exquisite cologne. Additionally, dabbing too much on your clothes can stain them. You can feel more confident and attractive when you apply the right cologne the right way.
Be a Positive Role Model
Men often learn how to be a father from their own fathers. During times of crisis, men who demonstrate will, resolve, and determination are much more effective at offering support and guidance to their families.
One way to find inner strength is to recall your own father's style for demonstrating grace when put under tremendous pressure.
Support Your Child in the Hospital
Being there for your child is one of the best things you can do as a father. Spend time with them and listen to what they have to say.
You can make their stay a little easier by bringing them their favorite snacks or visiting them frequently. It’s essential to keep an upbeat attitude despite how you might feel when faced with difficult decisions about a treatment plan.
If you’re not sure how to respond to medical recommendations, especially if it requires invasive surgery or medications with possible side effects, take the time to understand all your child’s various clinical options rather than making an impulsive decision.
Your child will feel better if they see that you remain hopeful no matter how alarming the situation. Staying close by is also a good way to help. If your child is scared or feels alone, they will appreciate knowing you’re right there beside them.
Also, be prepared to answer your child’s frightened questions with a clear and reassuring response. Sometimes it's hard for kids to comprehend what's going on. Take the time to explain things in ways your child will understand. For instance, if your child is between five to ten years old, here’s how you might explain why they might have to face a battery of uncomfortable medical tests: “Sometimes when we go to the doctor, they need to do some tests. These tests help them figure out what is wrong with us and how to make us better.”
A Father's Role During a Crisis
During tough times, fathers need to provide strength and support to their partners and children. They can do this by taking care of themselves so that they have the presence of mind to make sound decisions about their child’s healthcare and spend quality time with them in the hospital.
