Coping
For parents coping with disappointment, particularly in the NICU...
Based on the ideas of Lucia Milburn, PhD who references Ken Moses I think we can look at Elizabeth Kübler Ross's widely taught grief model as Stages of Empowerment:
Denial brings Protection
Anxiety brings Motivation to seek information, find solutions, make changes
Anger brings Energy
Guilt (Bargaining) reduces anxiety
Depression brings personal search for meaning and redefinition of personal answers
Simple releases:
A deep breath
Exercise, even a short walk
Social support, call a friend or family member
Psychotherapy, call your doctor
Rest, take a nap
Relaxation techniques, massage or meditation
Humor
Go to a place of nature, with trees.
Smell something you enjoy
References
http://bayarea.easterseals.com/site/DocServer/Milburn_Understanding_Parents_handouts.pdf?docID=142776
http://www.pediatricservices.com/prof/prof-15.htm