Maternal distress related to other disciplines
The range of psychological functioning in mothers is a very wide spectrum. That being said, the emphasis should be placed on identifying triggers that influence mothers’ psychological responses to the stressors of a child’s chronic disease. Mothers in this situation should make time for themselves, even if that means having a family member take over the caregiving role for a few hours. In an article based upon stress reduction in mothers of children with autism, researchers from Vanderbilt University speak on the subject. Studies have shown clear benefits of mother-led stress-reduction classes for women in the same, unique situation. Researchers created two programs: one focusing on mindfulness and training, the other emphasizing dealing with guilt by developing character strengths and positive, healthy mental exercises. “Evaluations conducted during and after the study showed that the mothers benefited from either program. They had lower levels of stress, anxiety and depression, along with improved sleep and life satisfaction. They also had fewer ‘dysfunctional,’ or unhelpful and negative, interactions with their children,” (Autism Speaks, 2014). It is essential that mothers partake in such activities in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle and relationship with their family and children.
