Does anyone know what affect having a chronically ill parent can have on a child?

Question

(focusing on the middle school/ high school age group) I'm talking actions, personality, and mental health wise. Thanks. <><

My dad is also sick, so i know the emotional stuff. I was looking for statistics too, if you have them. thanks. <><

Answer 1

It depends on the physical/mental health of both parent and child, the resources and support in the family, the type of illness and the set of circumstances that arise. For some families, chronic illness in one parent may simply make the child more sensitive to and aware of problems in the world.

Other possible reactions--it can strengthen resolve and character, it can put a lot of pressure on the child (hence taking some of the child's innocence away and giving serious responsibilities too early), it can cause a complex that leads the child to feel guilty or responsible for their parent and seek an escape or rebellion.

The options are numerous and depend on the family. There's really no guarantee the effect is any different than any other family situation. We all have challenges.

Answer 2

You may want to visit sites that cater to the specific illness. They may have some statistics available, but you may have to email them.

That is a very stressful thing for a child to endure and it depends on many variables how it affects them overall. Safe to say, it is best for the parents to make sure there is time for the kids and get help so that the family in general does not suffer needlessly.

Answer 3

It can effect grades, social skills, ability to focus. Lots of things. They allot of times have allot to worry about and more responsibilities than other kids and may spend allot of time alone.

My dad has been really sick for years and it defiantly made things hard on me. I sometimes had to sit up all night with him while my mom worked night shift so I had no sleep. It's hard to find time for homework or friends when a big part of running the house relies on you.

The parent being sick is often moody or depressed. Which is terrifying when your a kid even when you know it's the meds or whatever talking.

It's not something you can really explain.