To most parents the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis (CF) in their child represents a severe blow because they are confronted with an unwanted and unexpected disease that completely changes their whole life. Common reactions such as shock, denial, sadness and anger have to be mastered before a gradual adaptation to reality will be possible. The provision of support by a multidisciplinary team, including a psychologist, that offers its services from diagnosis and puts an emphasis on preventive care may help to achieve, maintain and improve physical and mental health, and social functioning in both patients and parents. CF not only affects the individual but the whole family, and the presence of biopsychosocial stressors may add to the burden caused by the disease. CF does not necessarily cause long-term serious family dysfunction, but it changes family structures and often taxes the family system beyond its strength. Even if there is only partial adherence to the demanding and complex treatment regimen, health professionals need to acknowledge the tremendous underlying effort on the part of the families. As a consequence of their continuous endeavours, many individuals with CF do lead remarkably normal lives with the prospect of gene therapy and lung transplantation, maintaining hope in case of severe deterioration.