Common emotions experienced by family members can include:
Shock and Distress- The very nature of stroke is that it happens suddenly. Relatives can understandably be distressed and upset seeing their relative unwell. This distress can be related to any of the impairments resulting from stroke. For example, it may be that they are distressed that their relative cannot speak to them or that they are confused and disoriented or that they are unable to walk. Initial high levels of distress may be related to uncertainty regarding recovery and fear their relative may die.
Fear and anxiety- Initial feelings of fear and anxiety may be that their loved one will have a further stroke or that they may die. With time fear and anxieties may change and may become focussed on other areas such as fear that they will not be able to cope or be in a position to support them. Fear of the future and managing the uncertainty of this.
loss and grief- Family members can experience feelings of loss. This can be loss of the person they knew prior to stroke or the relationship they had with their loved one. Also loss of future plans for example retirement plans and life goals.
Denial and disbelief- Some family members may be in denial that their relative has had a stroke. Despite being given information about their relative’s condition they may believe that their relative will recover fully. This can lead to difficulties when relatives believe that the lack of recovery is a result of lack of therapy or that their relative is not trying hard enough to get better.
Anger- This can be evident in many ways. Perhaps a relative who is angry towards healthcare staff. Anger is often a manifestation of underlying anxiety, stress and coping difficulties.
Guilt- Relatives often express high levels of guilt. These are evident during communication with statements such as ‘if only…., if only I had been there, if only we hadn’t argued’.
Page last reviewed: 05 Aug 2021
