During your illness and hospitalization your family may well have made alterations in their life-style. Keep in mind that you may all need time to readjust. It will take understanding by yourself and all others involved to adjust to the changes that have occurred.

There may continue to be a period of convalescence after discharge. It is important to resume previous interests and activities, but this is likely to be gradual. You can set your own pace, after consultation with your physician. There may be times when you feel you are a burden, when you feel inadequate as a family provider because you cannot return to work immediately, or as spouse or parent when you cannot resume these responsibilities.

Concerns about your appearance may cause moments of frustration and periods of depression. Your family and friends may also be experiencing similar anxieties. Being aware of these fears and feelings and discussing them with those close to you may help alleviate some anxiety.

Try to establish a workable daily routine both for you and your family. If you have daily treatments for your burn injury, set aside a convenient time for you and whomever will be helping you. You should plan adequate time because feeling rushed will increase your frustration.

If you begin to feel that your problems are overwhelming, or that you and your family are having difficulty adjusting to the changes, you may wish to obtain counseling. Your personal physician, or clinic physician, nurse, or social worker can assist you in finding someone to meet your personal needs.

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