The first days after a diagnosis — what to do?

After a diagnosis, parents often find themselves overwhelmed with information. That is why a clear plan helps a great deal.

1. Don't demand everything of yourself at once

Research shows that receiving a child's diagnosis often triggers an emotional reaction in the family similar to grief — shock, denial, fear, guilt or anger are normal emotions.

You don't have to be strong every day. You don't have to find every solution at once.

2. Keep all your documents

Create a single folder or digital place to keep:

• doctors' reports;
• rehabilitation recommendations;
• examination results;
• disability documents;
• municipal applications;
• specialists' contact details.

This will later make it much easier to:

• apply for benefits;
• obtain the assistant service;
• arrange rehabilitation;
• apply for assistive devices.

Which specialists might the child need?

Depending on the diagnosis, the child may be helped by:

• a physiotherapist;
• an occupational therapist;
• a rehabilitation doctor;
• a neurologist;
• a speech therapist;
• a psychologist;
• an orthopaedist;
• a nutrition specialist.

Rehabilitation is not just exercises. Its goal is to help the child develop movement, communication, everyday skills and the ability to take part in life.

Rehabilitation centres in Latvia offer children individual rehabilitation programmes, physiotherapy, sensory activities and other methods.

Why is early rehabilitation so important?

Research shows that early help can be very significant for a child's development. The sooner a child receives support, the greater the chances of developing movement, communication and everyday skills.

But it is important to remember — rehabilitation is not a "competition". Every child develops at their own pace.

What state support is available?

In Latvia, several forms of support are available to families with children who have functional impairments.

State support may include:

• disability status;
• a care benefit;
• a supplement to the state family benefit;
• the assistant service;
• travel reimbursement;
• assistive devices;
• rehabilitation services;
• psychological support.

In Latvia, children with special needs are entitled to special state protection and support.

What does the municipal social service do?

Many parents do not know that a great deal of practical support can be obtained right in their own municipality.

The municipal social service can help you to:

• apply for the assistant service;
• be granted social rehabilitation;
• arrange care at home;
• help with transport;
• be granted crisis assistance;
• help adapt your home;
• be informed about benefits;
• arrange day centre services;
• provide psychologist support.

In Latvia, social services are provided at both the state and municipal level.

Important — the social service does not always contact the family itself. Often the first step has to be taken by the parents.

The assistant service — what does it mean?

If a child has significant motor disabilities, the assistant service may be available.

An assistant can help to:

• get around;
• get to school or rehabilitation;
• take part in activities;
• find their way in their surroundings;
• ensure safety away from home.

In Latvia, the assistant service is one of the most important forms of support for families with children who have severe functional impairments.

Assistive devices — what is the child entitled to?

Many parents are initially worried about the cost, as assistive devices can be very expensive. However, in Latvia assistive devices can be obtained with state support.

These may include:

• wheelchairs;
• orthoses;
• rollators;
• standing frames;
• shower chairs;
• positioning systems;
• communication devices;
• anti-bedsore mattresses.

A report from a doctor or specialist is required to be granted assistive devices.

What to do if you feel emotionally drained?

Many parents live under heightened stress for long periods. Research shows that families raising children with functional impairments are at increased risk of emotional burnout.

That is why it is important to:

• talk about your emotions;
• accept help;
• seek support from a psychologist;
• find other parents in a similar situation;
• allow yourself to rest.

Parents do not have to be perfect.

The most important thing to remember

At first it may seem that your whole life will consist only of diagnoses, rehabilitation and worry. But over time, many families find their rhythm. The child grows, develops, laughs, plays and forms their own personality — far more than just a diagnosis.

You do not have to know all the answers today. You do not have to do everything perfectly. One next step, and people who walk this path together with you, are enough.