Mental health is an essential part of the well-being of both individuals and families, yet it often remains a topic that is rarely discussed. When a child with autism is growing up in a family, parenthood is accompanied by specific emotional, social, and practical challenges.
In addition to their dedication to the child’s development, parents also face uncertainty, stress, and a lack of sufficient institutional support.
In order to better understand these challenges and their impact on the psychological well-being of parents, Mollëkuqja spoke with special educator Griselda Geci, who has been working with children with autism and their families for many years.
How does raising a child with autism affect the mental health of parents, particularly in emotional and social terms?
Raising a child with autism is a daily challenge that requires continuous commitment and often professional support, so that the child’s developmental process can be as stable and effective as possible. For parents, this experience deeply changes their worldview and the way they perceive life, relationships, and priorities.
They reconsider their expectations, learn new forms of communication, and face strong emotions such as anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about their child’s future. In social terms, they often feel isolated, as their daily routine is largely centered on the needs of the child.
Do you notice differences in the way mothers and fathers experience and cope with stress when they have a child with autism?
From many years of experience, it can be observed that mothers are usually more emotionally and practically involved in caring for the child. They spend more time with the child and often develop a very deep emotional bond, to the point that they risk “identifying with the diagnosis,” experiencing the child’s challenge as part of their personal identity. This can significantly increase emotional strain and psychological exhaustion.
On the other hand, fathers usually carry the main responsibility for the family’s financial security and are more engaged outside the home. Although this does not reduce their emotional involvement, their way of coping with stress is often more reserved and less openly expressed.
What are the main factors that increase the psychological burden on parents?
One of the main factors is the initial confrontation with the diagnosis, which is often accompanied by trauma, dilemmas, and fear about the child’s future. Parents face many questions and uncertainties regarding the child’s ability to integrate and live independently in the future.
In addition to personal factors, external factors also play a role, such as the lack of institutional support, gaps in legal mechanisms for this category, financial difficulties, and social stigma. Prejudices and a lack of understanding from the surrounding community can further deepen the feeling of isolation and worsen the mental health of parents.
How do family dynamics and the division of parental roles affect the mental well-being of mothers and fathers?
The mental well-being of parents is directly influenced by how the family functions and how responsibilities are shared. Cooperation between partners is a key factor in coping with this challenging journey. When responsibilities are shared in a balanced way and open communication exists, the emotional burden becomes more manageable.
Support from the extended family, friends, and institutions helps reduce stress and maintain emotional stability. In the absence of such support, family tensions may increase and negatively affect the mental health of both parents.
What forms of professional and community support are most needed for the well-being of children with autism?
Parents need continuous psychological support through individual or group counseling, which should run parallel to the child’s therapy. Specific support programs for parents help them cope with stress, manage emotions, and build healthy coping strategies.
In addition, supportive workplace policies and financial assistance are necessary, especially for mothers who are often forced to leave their jobs in order to dedicate themselves to their child. Community and institutional support not only improves the well-being of parents but also directly enhances the quality of life of the child.
