Feelings you may experience
Shock and disbelief – it may take time to accept that your baby has a disability and some people may never accept the diagnosis.
Fear – it’s frightening to hear your baby could have or has a disability. Most people cope better when they learn more about the diagnosis and treatment options.
Distress – the diagnosis may cause you and your family members to experience high levels of emotional distress.
Sadness – feeling sad after your child has been diagnosed with congenital cytomegalovirus is common. If you feel continually sad or down for two or more weeks and are not enjoying or interested in your usual activities, or are unmotivated, talk to your doctor – you may be experiencing depression.
Anxiety – it’s natural to worry about what a congenital CMV diagnosis will mean for your baby in the future, and the impact the diagnosis will have on your family, work and other responsibilities, but looking far ahead may be unhelpful.
Anger – you may feel angry with health care professionals, your God, or even yourself.
Guilt and blame – it is common to ask ‘why my child?’
Loneliness – you might feel lonely and isolated if your family and friends have trouble understanding your child’s diagnosis or if you are too busy with appointments etc to be able to work or socialise with others and enjoy your usual activities.
Loss of control – being told your baby has congenital CMV can be overwhelming and make you feel as though you are losing control of your life.