Being Surrounded by Strangers

You'll meet many new people in the hospital, including doctors, nurses, and technicians (people who take x-rays, draw blood samples, and perform other tests). These strangers will be in and out of your hospital room day and night, and all this activity can make you feel uncomfortable. The good news is, these people are trained to take care of you and help you get better.

Having a roommate. Unless you're in intensive care (a section of the hospital reserved for people who are very sick and need a lot of attention) you'll probably have a roommate. Your roommate may have the same health problem or one that's very different from yours. There's a curtain between the beds that you can close when you want privacy and open when you and your roommate want to visit. You and your roommate can be a source of strength for each other, but if you really don't want a roommate, you may be able to get a single room (they usually cost more, so talk to your parents about whether your insurance company covers the additional costs).

While this may sound strange, the hospital can be a good place to meet people. You may not want to hang out there on Friday nights, but if you're in the hospital for more than a few days, talking to other patients your age can make you feel less lonely and bored.

© From Young People and Chronic Illness: True Stories, Help, and Hope by Kelly Huegel.
©1998 Free Spirit Publishing, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.