Online Reporter
Disability Issues
Dr Christine Peta
ON June 1, Zimbabwe joined the rest of the world in commemorating the Global Day of Parents, which was designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012.
Globally, there is growing recognition of parents in national social policies and investment packages, all aimed at reducing poverty, decreasing inequality and promoting positive parental and child well-being.
Nonetheless, this article focuses specifically on parents of children with disabilities.
Raising a child with disabilities can be profoundly challenging, with the difficulty often depending on individual circumstances, the type of disability and available support systems.
The emotional toll of navigating complex systems, diagnoses, healthcare specialists, schools and a
child’s unique needs can be overwhelming.
Parents frequently encounter significant financial burdens associated with therapies, assistive devices and various medical, therapeutic and educational costs, leading to considerable financial strain.
One parent may even need to reduce work hours or leave their job entirely to provide care, especially for children with severe disabilities, which impacts household income and career progression.
Caregiving demands can lead to chronic stress, higher rates of anxiety, depression and fatigue.
Parents may also struggle to access adequate support services and find it challenging to participate in social events, leading to feelings of isolation and exclusion.
While some parents build strong support networks with others facing similar circumstances, they might still feel a disconnect from peers who
do not understand the specific
challenges related to their child’s disability.
Parents may also have to navigate complex situations with siblings, who can experience a range of emotions, from pride and responsibility to jealousy and resentment, which can affect their relationships and development.
The need to make long-term plans for their child’s care and support into adulthood involves significant logistical and emotional considerations that can be overwhelming.
Caregiving can also strain marriages, though some parents report bonding more deeply through shared experiences as they work together to support their child and each other.
Many parents also emphasise positive personal growth through their experiences, highlighting increased resilience, advocacy skills and deeper family connections.
Zimbabwe’s National Disability Policy asserts that children with disabilities do not live in isolation; disability affects not only the child but also their parents and other family members.
Therefore, it is crucial to consider the life experiences of children with disabilities and their parents in all social protection and relevant programmes.
Parents of children with disabilities can greatly benefit from various types of support to help them cope, advocate and thrive.
It is important to note the following:
Support groups enable parents to connect with others who share similar experiences, providing a vital sense of community and understanding.
Professional counselling can help parents navigate their emotions and develop effective coping strategies.
Workshops and training provide valuable information on disabilities, empowering parents to effectively support their children.
Schools can enhance their support through individualised education plans, ensuring each child has a well-defined plan tailored for their specific needs. Involving parents in the development and review processes of these plans is essential.
Surveys or suggestion boxes can allow parents to express concerns and needs regarding school services and policies, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for families.
Access to respite care services is crucial, allowing parents to take breaks and recharge while ensuring their child is safe and well-cared for.
Access to community services offering recreational activities, therapy and other support networks is vital.
Virtual platforms can facilitate sharing of experiences and knowledge among parents and experts.
The bottom line is that specific needs vary greatly depending on the nature and severity of the child’s disability, as well as the family’s socioeconomic status and cultural
background.
Early intervention programmes and advocacy for inclusive policies are vital aspects of supporting these families.
Dr Christine Peta is a disability, public health, policy, international development and research expert. She can be contacted on: [email protected]
