Wsparcie społeczne rodziny z dzieckiem przewlekle chorym

Abstract

A chronic condition in a child creates a difficult situation for his/her family, because it is connected with negative experiences and the necessity to assume additional responsibilities. That is why many parents of chronically ill children need support from a variety of specialists and relevant social institutions. Social support in relation to the family with a chronically ill child can have a formal or informal character. Informal support involves help offered by family, friends, relatives or volunteers who are representatives of associations and organizations providing help (support groups). This type of support is based on strong emotional relations. Formal support constitutes help offered by institutions and professionals employed in health centers i.e. health clinics, hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, sanatoriums or hospices. Only joint activities aimed at supporting families and ill children will allow eliminating the threats associated with child disease.