A qualitative study on mental health and caregiving practices of parents of children with special needs

Abstract

To explore the mental health issues and caregiving practices of parents of children with special needs, a qualitative study was conducted. 8 in-depth interviews (IDIs) and one focus group discussion (FGD) with both parents of 3-8 years children who were selected purposively in Dhaka city. The content analysis method was followed to analyze the data. The findings show that maintaining a secure attachment with children, prioritizing their interests, and spending quality time and following daily routine with them are the most common practices among the parents. Mothers were more involved in caregiving practices than fathers. Parents mentioned common mental health issues like frustration, anxiety, and stress. Some parents also experienced social anxiety, panic attacks, and obsessive compulsive disorder. The study also revealed that parents faced challenges in child rearing practices, such as lack of family and social support, managing children's behavior, lack of institutional care and knowledge about child rearing. Most parents coped by accepting the situation, practicing self-care, and seeking help from mental health professionals. The study suggested a holistic approach, including parental care, family support, social services, institutional care, and government, NGO, and other organizations, to meet these challenges and provide healthy living for both the child and caregiver.