Did you know – parents of children with ASD are much more likely to suffer from stress than parents of children with other developmental disabilities?

From her clinical work, Janine is well aware of the high degree of stress experienced by some parents of a child with ASD and this, not surprisingly, has been shown to detrimentally impact on the couple relationship. Due to the focus on the needs of the child with ASD, there is often little time for parents to consider what might be helpful for themselves and their relationship. Parents can greatly benefit from focusing on how they can reduce the stress at home and take better care of themselves while looking after their family.

Research:

Bluth, K., Roberson, P.N.E., Billen, R.M., & Sams, J.M. (2013). A Stress Model for Couples Parenting Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and the Introduction of a Mindfulness Intervention. Journal of Family Therapy Review, 5 (3), 194-213.