Do everything you can to reduce your own anxiety. Start by asking lots of questions! Find out as much as you can about what to expect when you bring your child to the doctor/hospital. You may ask about what your child will look like after a procedure (swelling, bandages, etc.). Take notes so you will remember what you are told and write any questions you might have. Share what you learn with your teen or even include them in the questioning process to help them feel in control.

Try not to have conversations about your child's care in his/her presence unless you are including him/her in the conversation. Adolescents can understand much more about their bodies and what is happening to them and may resent not being included in discussions about their condition or treatment. Encourage your child to get information through the doctor or medical pamphlets/books about his/her own condition or procedure.

Give your teen opportunities to discuss what is happening with staff without you being present. This may not feel comfortable at first but your teen may have questions or concerns that they are embarrassed talking about in front of you.

Accompany your teen to procedures when possible. Just because they're older does not mean adolescents don't still get frightened by the strange hospital environment.

Encourage peer interactions in the hospital. You can do this by bringing your teen to the playroom when he/she feels well enough and helping him/her keep in touch with his/her friends from home and/or school. Try to get schoolwork for your child so he/she can keep up with his/her class.