Image Credit: Pixabay
Having a loved one in coma is a very frightening and stressful experience. It can be physically, mentally, and emotionally draining. I know the feeling because I have been through that. Two years ago, my mother was rushed to the hospital due to hypovolemic shock. They were able to revive her but she remained in coma for 2 weeks. At that time, I was still working abroad so I had to fly back home that same day in order to be with her. Imagine the stress that I had to go through with the sudden change of environment, jet lag and the misery of having your mother in that condition. Thanks to the support of my family and friends, I was able to survive that. In this article, I would like to share some ways that I find very helpful in coping with this kind of situation.
Support Team
The support from other people is very helpful at this time, most especially your family. Turn to them for whatever help that you may need. In my experience, family and friends were present every day to bring us food since my dad and I were basically in the hospital 24/7. Ask your family or friends if they can baby sit your kids for you, or watch over your pets. Those little things can lessen the burden that you are already carrying.
Care for Yourself
It is normal for you to neglect your own self during this time but you should never do this. Keep in mind that your physical, mental and emotional well-being is very important too. How can you provide care for your loved one if you yourself is not well?
Make sure that you take time to eat right in order to keep your energy up. Take Vitamin C to boost your immune system.
Socialize with your friends or family members to avoid depression.
Stay Positive
It may sound difficult but during this time, you need keep the faith and stay positive. You have to be strong for your loved one who is in coma and for your other loved ones too. Since I’m the eldest and a Nurse by profession, my dad and brother drew strength from me. That’s why I had to man up and remained strong the whole time.
Talk to your loved one who is in coma and remind them to keep fighting and of how much you love them.
One important thing that helped me a lot is through prayers. I drew strength and comfort from God during those times. Believe that He will do what’s best for you and your family.
Understand the Health Condition
Even if you don’t have a medical background, it is very important to be aware of your loved one’s condition. Ask your health care provider about everything that your loved one is going through. Don’t be afraid to ask for explanations to further understand the present condition and also to know the prognosis.
Vent out your Feelings
I truly understand how emotionally draining this experience is. It’s hard to believe that in one snap, you can no longer talk to your loved one. The day prior to my mom being hospitalized, we were still chatting on Facebook and the next day, it just happened. I know that I mentioned earlier that you have to be strong but that doesn’t mean that you cannot break down and cry. Talk to a friend or a family member and vent out all your feelings. Cry and let it all out. It helps, trust me.
Whatever the outcome is, make sure that you are prepared and that you are ready to accept it. It has been 2 years but my mom still hasn’t regained her mental status. She was able to survive the 2 week-coma but the brain damage was severe that she remained in a persistent vegetative state. Nevertheless, my family and I still hope that one day, she will recover.
