Each meningitis case is different and therefore the recovery process, both emotionally and physically, will differ according to the individual and family involved. Due to the speed in which meningitis attacks, most people are often overwhelmed, shocked and traumatized by the experience.
Discharge from the hospital can be a time of high anxiety, as
often individuals may not be emotionally or physically ready to resume
their previous lifestyle, and where there are serious complications
more rehabilitation will be required. Whether the recovery is at home
or at the hospital, both situations can be difficult for the
individuals and families involved. Only time and rest can aid with the
recovery process.
The after-effects of meningitis can be severe and include: hearing loss, blindness, memory difficulty, loss of speech, epilepsy, learning disabilities, behavior problems, limb loss and scarring (meningococcal septicaemia), brain damage, paralysis, multiple organ failure and death.
At Meningitis Relief Canada (MRC), we provide grief and bereavement counseling and support services to individuals and families afflicted by meningitis. Please contact us for more information.
Losing a loved one to meningitis or meningococcal septicaemia is traumatizing experience, and is nothing less than heart-breaking. Due to the rapid acceleration of the disease and deterioration of the patient, most people are often left in disbelief, shaken and traumatized.
Since there is a lack of awareness and education regarding meningitis, most people do not even become aware of the disease until they are affected. This too can exacerbate the grieving process as people may feel helpless and confused as to how this could happen to their loved one.
After a significant loss, people may experience a variety of difficult and surprising emotions, such as shock, anger, and guilt. At times, it may feel like the sorrow will never ease. While these feelings can be fearsome and overwhelming, they are very normal reactions to losing someone. Accepting these emotions as a part of the grieving process and allowing oneself to feel them are necessary for healing.
At Meningitis Relief Canada (MRC), we provide grief and bereavement counseling and support services to individuals and families afflicted by meningitis. Please contact us for more information.