An estimated six out of every 1,000 children born will have a disorder on the autism spectrum, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Finding out your child is one of the statistics can be a shocking blow. This disorder affects children's cognitive, social and physical health. Learning how to cope with this reality in a healthy way is essential for you as well as your child.
Effects
Accepting an autism diagnosis is difficult, but learning how to properly care for an autistic child is an even bigger challenge. You may feel overwhelmed and even angry that your child has to endure this disorder. The demands associated with raising an autistic child can affect the amount of time you have to foster relationships with your spouse or other children. Not dealing with these issues could have major ramifications for your psychological wellness. A study appearing in the December 2010 issue of the "Chinese Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics" found that parents of autistic kids are more likely to have symptoms of anxiety, depression, paranoia and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Coping through Counseling
One way to handle your psychological stress in a healthy way is to attend family counseling specifically for those with an autistic child in the household. This will not only give you a safe place to express your fears and concerns; it will be a way to learn other healthy coping skills from a trained professional as well. Many medical facilities that treat autism have on-site counseling services to help both parents and siblings adjust. Counselors can help you address marital problems, familial conflict and other psychosocial issues.
Alone Time
Having alone time while raising an autistic child is easier said than done, but make every effort to make it a priority. Meditate, exercise or eke out some time for a hobby. The national organization Autism Speaks recommends writing in a journal to express your private thoughts as this can have both physical and psychological benefits. Having private time can also help you find religious or spiritual solace. This was found to be a common coping mechanism among mothers of autistic kids over time, according to research published in December 2006 in the "Journal of Intellectual Disability Research." Ask family members or friends if they'd be willing to cover for you so you can take these much-needed breaks.
Getting Involved
While personal time is important, so is connecting with others who are facing the same issues. Many support groups are available throughout the nation. While family and friends may be empathetic, it can be difficult for them to truly understand your fears and thoughts about having an autistic child. Support groups can be a healthy way to gain encouragement and hope, according to Autism Speaks. They can also be a resource for information about the disorder that you may not be familiar with. Over time, you may find yourself being the one offering advice and support to worried parents.
References
- "Chinese Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics"; Mental Health State of Parents with Autism; W.X. Ou, et al.; December 2010
- Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Individual and Family Therapy
- Autism Speaks: Autism & Your Family
- "Journal of Intellectual Disability Research"; Coping Over Time: The Parents of Children with Autism; D.E. Gray; December 2006
