There’s no single answer to how you can most effectively cope with juvenile myositis in your family, but some thoughts:

  • Listen. Listen with all of your senses to your family members so you can take it all in and read what their words and movements say.
  • Talk. Keep communication open and frequent with every member of your family. Explain things to your children in ways they will best understand what’s happening and what to expect.
  • Feel. Allow yourself to feel whatever you’re feeling so you can deal with it and move on.
  • See. Recognize emotions in one another and decide the best way to handle these feelings-together or alone, talking or listening.

Other tips from parents and family members:

  • Keep everyone involved. Make sure brothers, sisters, teachers and friends know what is going on so they will feel less anxious in general. Siblings especially like to feel like they’re part of what’s going on.
  • Remember yourself. As hard as it may seem to find time for yourself, try to do something you enjoy every day-taking a bath, reading a book, going for a walk, or anything that isn’t hectic or rushed.
  • Stay organized. This minimizes your anxiety in a stressful situation. Keep track of meetings, medical records, treatment schedules and more in one notebook or file.