Vladislav Konkin
Psychotherapist, Supervisor
Clinic of Early Rehabilitation “Three Sisters”
Moscow, Russia
s.chistyakova@three-sisters.ru+79160762180
Key words: family therapy, rehabilitation, child illness, crisis, support groups, social connections, family-centered approach, rehabilitation psychology
AbstractA child’s severe illness — a stroke, a traumatic brain injury, cancer, or a rare genetic disorder — becomes a catastrophe that destroys the family’s habitual way of life. In an instant, the familiar reality ceases to exist, and the emotional shock deprives parents of the ability to feel or make sense of what is happening. Emotional numbness, denial, guilt, and anger often arise. These states are intensified by the fear of stigmatization: to acknowledge the illness means to admit one’s helplessness or guilt, which is especially difficult for parents. Depression and despair often follow — accompanied by feelings of defeat, hopelessness, and loss of meaning. During such periods, the family often becomes isolated, limiting social contact and avoiding discussion of the illness even among themselves [1, 3].