Experiencing a child injury can trigger a very unique set of feelings and emotions for parents, carers and those close to the child.
Everyone reacts differently, however it is common for parents and carers to feel a great sense of blame and guilt after their child is injured. These feelings are often linked to the expectation that as adults, it is our role to protect children from harm.
Other common emotions include anger (e.g. why has this happened to my child), fear (if the child will be alright and if the injury will cause any long term effects) and helplessness (because quite often the child’s physical wellbeing will now be largely in the hands of doctors and nurses).
This section provides links to a range of information, advice and strategies to assist parents, carers, siblings, family members and friends in the event of a serious child injury. Information is included about what to expect if you have to make a trip to the emergency department, what to expect if your child is admitted to hospital and how to assist your child to recover from their injury and settle back into their usual routines. Please click on the images below to access the relevant fact sheets and information.
The death of a child due to any circumstance is a traumatic event that will have long-term effects on the lives of parents, siblings, family members and friends.
A child death due to an unintentional injury can trigger a very unique set of feelings and emotions for parents, carers and those close to the child – emotions which can be quite different to those felt by someone who has experienced a child death due to other causes (e.g. an illness).
Everyone reacts differently, however it is common for parents and carers to feel a great sense of blame and guilt after a child death due to injury. These feelings are often linked to the expectation that as adults, it is our role to protect children from harm, leading those close to the child to feel like they could have done more to protect the child.
This section provides a range of information to assist in transforming the pain and grief associated with the death of a child due to injury, into hope. You can also view a list of support services that offer information, programs and resources to assist you during this difficult time. Please click on the images below to access the relevant information and fact sheets. The fact sheets, links and resources below have been provided by the Compassionate Friends Victoria and the Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement.
Please note: This site is not intended to replace medical advice, but provide links to information, advice and support services. If you or someone you know is experiencing an emotional crisis, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 (24 hour support).
