Families can often experience stress and anxiety about their child’s eating and feeding as mealtime is an important part of daily life and health. There are resources and people available to help you and your family. Some of these people might be part of your current healthcare team, while others might be available to you as a referral if you need one.
Social workers can assist you and your family with the burdens of coping with stress and financial concerns. They can help you access other services and resources in the community. If you have homecare services in place, you will most likely have access to a social worker or to other team members who can help in this regard.
Spiritual care providers offer spiritual, emotional and religious support to families. They can also help you access other faith-based groups in your own community. Consider connecting with one if this sounds important to you.
Mental health supports are also available. Your primary care provider or a healthcare team member can also provide you with information about support services in your community.
Additional Resources:
- Inform Alberta is a provincial directory of community, health, social and government services available in your area. This also includes information about private services.
Self-Care
To help others, we must first take care of ourselves. Here are some things you can do for yourself and may also help to boost your family’s resiliency:
Family Life
Day-to-day life can be more challenging when your child has feeding difficulties. Please know that you are not alone and there are many resources, supports and ideas to help you and your family. The following are some resources on the following topics:
- Involving family, friends, caregivers, and school
- Supporting my child’s siblings and peers
Finding a Support Network
- Social Media
- Classes and Groups
- Peer Support
- Ways to find another parent or caregiver in your community
