15/01/2024
QUESTION ??? Why in INDIA most of the mother feel exhausted to raise there special need children ??
Is this question is only applicable in INDIA , NO Parents of children with special needs often face unique challenges that can contribute to stress, anxiety, depression, and a lack of support.
In India, as in many other parts of the world, mothers of children with special needs may experience exhaustion due to a combination of cultural, social, economic, and healthcare factors.
Here are some reasons specific to the Indian and world wide context:
1. Stigma and Cultural Beliefs: In some parts of India, there may be a stigma associated with having a child with special needs. This stigma can lead to isolation and a lack of understanding and support from the community. Mothers may feel the pressure to conform to societal expectations, contributing to stress and exhaustion.
2. Lack of Understanding: Some parents may face judgment or lack of understanding from others who are unaware of the challenges associated with raising a child with special needs. This can contribute to feelings of isolation and frustration. Juggling with the needs of a special needs child with those of other family members, work, and personal responsibilities can be overwhelming. Mothers may feel the pressure to maintain a delicate balance, leading to stress and anxiety.
3. Increased Responsibilities: Caring for a child with special needs often involves additional responsibilities, such as medical appointments, therapy sessions, and specialized caregiving. This increased workload can be physically and emotionally draining.
4. Financial Strain: Many families in INDIA and across the world with special needs children face financial challenges due to medical expenses, therapy costs, and the potential need for specialized equipment. financial constraints, and the additional costs associated with raising a child with special needs can exacerbate economic challenges. Limited financial resources may impact the family's ability to access necessary support services and therapies. Financial stress can contribute significantly to a mother's overall well-being.
5. Social Isolation: The demands of caregiving can lead to social isolation, as parents may find it difficult to participate in social activities or maintain relationships with friends and family. This isolation can contribute to feelings of loneliness and lack of support.
6. Lack of Support Services: In some cases, families may struggle to access the necessary support services, such as respite care, counselling, or support groups. The absence of these resources can contribute to a sense of isolation and frustration. While there are support services available in certain urban areas, rural communities may have limited access to support networks, respite care, and counselling services. The absence of these services can contribute to a sense of exhaustion and isolation for mothers.
7. Unpredictability: The unpredictable nature of some special needs conditions can make it challenging for parents to plan or have a sense of control over their lives. This uncertainty can contribute to stress and anxiety.
8. Role Expectations: Traditional gender roles and expectations in India may place a significant burden on mothers as primary caregivers. Mothers may bear the brunt of the caregiving responsibilities, including managing medical appointments, therapies, and daily care, leading to exhaustion.
9. Social Pressure: Mothers may feel pressure to conform to societal expectations of a "perfect" family, and the challenges of raising a child with special needs may lead to feelings of inadequacy and guilt. This social pressure can contribute to emotional exhaustion.
10. Limited Awareness and Education: Awareness and understanding of various special needs conditions may be limited in certain communities. This lack of awareness can lead to delayed or inadequate interventions and support services for both the child and the family. : The education system in India may not always be adequately equipped to cater to the diverse needs of special needs children. Mothers may find themselves advocating for their child's educational rights and facing challenges in ensuring an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
11. Limited Access to Healthcare: In some regions, there may be challenges in accessing quality healthcare services, including early intervention programs, specialized therapies, and medical treatments. Limited access can result in delays in diagnosis and appropriate interventions.
12 . Emotional Toll: Witnessing a child face challenges, health issues, or developmental delays can take a significant emotional toll on parents. The constant worry about the child's well-being can contribute to anxiety and depression. Parents may experience grief and a sense of loss as they confront the reality that their child may face challenges or limitations. Coping with these emotions can be a significant psychological challenge.
It's essential for mothers in this situation to seek support, both emotionally and practically. Connecting with other parents facing similar challenges, accessing support groups, seeking professional counselling , and establishing a strong network of family and friends can all contribute to a more supportive environment. Addressing these challenges collectively as a society by promoting awareness, understanding, and accessible support services is also crucial.
It's important to note that there are variations across regions and communities in India, and some families may have more healthy support a systems and resources and some families are not giving proper support to the child and there mothers. Efforts to raise awareness, improve access to healthcare and education, reduce stigma, and provide financial assistance can contribute to a more supportive environment for mothers raising special needs children in India. Additionally, fostering inclusive policies and practices can help create a more understanding and accommodating society.
BY :- PRIYANKA KUMARI
E-MAIL ID :- ( solutionforautismandadhd@gmail.com)
