How to COPE when raising a Emotionally Disabled child

Raising an emotionally disabled child often leaves one feeling inept and frustrated. There are plenty of how to: on "parenting" but we often forget to do the little things that help get through the day a little easier. These are some suggestions that are an important reminder to take care of yourself!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Book
• Candles
• Paper and Pencil

1. Read a book!
   We tend to always wait for the other shoe to drop. Find a good book that allows you to escape from time to time. We tend to make every waking moment about the last outburst or the next one to come.

2. Light some candles and take a hot bath!
   Aromatherapy and some "Me" time will benefit greatly.

3. Walk it off!
   Walking is a great way to release some steam. Wether walking with your child or without a good 20 minute brisk walk helps to clear your mind and the physical exercise helps release built up tension.

4. Write, Draw, Sketch!
   Write down your thought, feelings and frustrations. Draw or sketch anything that comes to mind. You are not looking for a masterpiece, just an outlet.

5. Talk!
   When you child is not "perfect" we tend to close ourselves off from people who have "perfect" children. Find a support group in your area, meet other parents that face the same challenges you do. You and your child are not the only ones going through this!

6. Find what works for you!
   wether it be sewing, fishing, whatever... find what works for you. By taking care of YOU, you are helping your child. You will better be able to deal with the day to day ups and downs that are inevitable.

Tips & Warnings

• There are so many little things that can make the day a little easier. As parents, we tend to self-blame, to always be looking for what could set off the next outburst, or how to "fix it".
• DONT FORGET TO TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF!

[treyunni]

on 8/5/2009 I AM HAVING TROUBLE WITH FINDING CARE FOR MY EMOTIONALLY DISABLED CHILD WHILE I WORK. I CAN'T AFFORD TO QUIT MY JOB BUT I CAN'T KEEP PICKING UP MY SON EVERYTIME HE HAS AN OUTBURST. I TRIED TO GO THROUGH THE DIVISION OF SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAM BUT THEY DON'T SEEM TO HAVE THE PROPER TRAINING FOR A CHILD LIKE MY SON. I AM LOST AND FRUSTRATED AND ABOUT TO LOSE MY JOB. WHAT ELSE IS THERE?