Living with a child chronic illness: coping strategies

Abstract

The objective of this study was to describe the strategies developed by four families to cope with their child or adolescent chronic illnesses. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and six strategies developed by the families were identified: adopting a new way of life, living one day at a time, maintaining hope, comparing with other sick children, normalizing and having faith in God. The knowledge of these strategies can serve as a basis for health professionals to guide and advise patients and families to better cope with the chronic illness.