The admission of a baby to the neonatal unit has a significant impact on parents and the entire family. It is important to ask for help and to seek the needed support.
Who can provide support?
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This support can come from professional caregivers, family, friends and peers.
On the NeoParent website, a discharge tool is available to support parents when their baby is discharged from the neonatal unit. This tool helps map out the family’s formal and informal support network.
More information about the discharge tool? Click here.
Professional support
Parents can rely on professional caregivers not only for medical support, but also for information, emotional support and psychological care. You can ask to speak with the psychologist of the unit, or the social services department can arrange contact with a hospital psychologist.
Curious about which caregivers can help? Click here.
Support by peers
When parents are able to share their story with other parents who have gone through the same experience, this can be a valuable source of support and understanding. On the peer support page, we further explore the different ways peer support can help, including through parent organizations, forums, and social media. We also share testimonials from parents with (former) preterm children on a range of topics.
Support by family and friends
Family and friends are an important part of our social network. They can therefore play a key role in supporting parents of a preterm child. It is important for parents to communicate openly and honestly about their needs and boundaries. Family and friends want to help, but they need some guidance to understand what works best for the parents. As a new parent, you can create a free list of practical and emotional support you need: from a fresh meal to a good conversation…
Learn more about this wonderful initiative? Click here.
Emotional support and understanding
Family and friends can offer a listening ear and create a safe space where parents can share their worries, fears and moments of joy. Simply being present can be reassuring for parents. Showing understanding for a situation, that is often unpredictable, and remaining flexible when social plans need to change can make a significant difference for parents.
Practical support
Family and friends can provide practical support by helping with household tasks, grocery shopping, preparing meals or looking after other children. This eases the burden and gives parents the time to rest and take care of themselves. Family and friends can also accompany parents during hospital visits, consultations and examinations.