Coming home from hospital can feel like relief, but also like collapse. Exhaustion, trauma, and overwhelm often catch up once the immediate crisis is over, leaving parents and carers carrying the weight of a “hospital hangover.” It’s an experience that can take a toll physically, emotionally, and mentally.

In this webinar, counsellor Janet Burke will share practical ways to navigate the emotional toll of hospital life, helping you process the big feelings hospital stays can stir up, rebuild resilience and support yourself while continuing to care for your child and family.

We’ll explore

Why this experience is hard but also normal response when recovering from hospital stays

How hospital experiences can have lasting emotional impacts

The importance of emotional expression and giving feelings space

How to identify your needs and find the confidence to ask for help

More about Janet
Janet began her career in early childhood education, working with children and families across Australia, England and Canada. She became Australia’s first play therapist in paediatric palliative care at Bear Cottage and now leads the Child Life and Music Therapy team at Sydney Children’s Hospital. With a Masters in Counselling, Janet brings compassion and insight to her work supporting families through life’s most challenging times.

Who this event is for

For parents and carers navigating both disability and complex medical needs with their child.

Professionals are also welcome to register to receive the recording

What to expect

This webinar is a welcoming space designed for parents and caregivers to listen, learn, and leave with practical tools and skills.

Led by experienced peer facilitator Pam, who shares her lived experience, insight, and compassionate perspective to support other medically complex families.

The webinar will be recorded, giving you the flexibility to watch live or at your convenience.

If you can’t attend live, a recording will be emailed to all registrants within 7 days of the event.

Important information

This event will be held online via Zoom.

As part of your event registration, you’ve been added to our mailing list. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Belongside Families provides general information, peer support, and shared lived experience— we do not provide medical/professional advice or counselling. Any information shared during the event is intended to support and empower families and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice or care.

Funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services. Visit www.dss.gov.au for more information.