- Remember that all those feelings are allowed, and that they are all normal and okay and not strange at all.
- You might feel sad and angry more often than usual.
- It's okay to be sad or angry.
- It usually helps to talk about what you are feeling and what you are thinking. You will probably feel relieved afterward and if necessary you can work with someone to help you with your thoughts and feelings.
- Try to let your parents or other people around you know how you feel. They usually really want to know, because if they know how you feel, they might be able to do something to make you feel better.
- If you can't or don't want to talk to your parents, try to find someone else you trust. This could be someone at school, like your mentor or a teacher, or someone in your family or a neighbor!
- Do you feel guilty because you are not sick? It's okay to do things that you enjoy. There is nothing you can do about the fact that your brother or sister is sick.
- It can be difficult for you if your parents have less time and attention for you. Your sick brother or sister now demands a lot of their attention and sometimes there isn't much time left for you. Remember: It doesn't mean they don't think about you or care about you!
- There are psychologists at the Princess Máxima Center who you can talk to. They are there for the whole family, including you as the brother or sister of a patient. You can talk to them if you are worried about something or if you feel out of sorts. They are good at listening and giving tips. Would you like to talk to a psychologist? Ask your parents to make an appointment for you.