Mental Health Tips For Parents With Down Syndrome Children
Raising a child with Down Syndrome comes with its own set of challenges and rewards.Often when parents find out that their child has Down syndrome, they have several questions and doubts that worry them. All this can take a toll on their mental health. As a result, it is important to ensure that during this journey, as a parent you are happy and at peace so that you can bring up your little one in a positive environment. Here are a few helpful tips to raise a child with Down Syndrome:
● Keep yourself informed and aware about Down Syndrome: When your child has Down Syndrome, you may feel scared, worried and helpless, especially at first. One of the best things you can do to ease your fears is to learn as much as possible about this syndrome as you can. Seeking information on the subject proactively can make you better prepared and help you parent your child better.
● Build a strong support system: Stay connected with your friends and family members as they can be your support in caregiving. Join support groups and communities and connect with other parents who have a child with Down syndrome to find a community of people who can understand and empathise with your situation. Having someone to share your experiences with can be cathartic and help you feel less alone.
● Communicate with your partner: Have an open conversation with your partner about responsibilities and attitudes towards your child, household work, relationships with other family members, etc. If you feel burdened or stressed, communicating your feelings can help you feel lighter. Sharing your workload with your partner can give you some relief. While raising a child is a full-time responsibility, it is also important to spend quality time with your partner and nurture your relationship.
● Delegate tasks and chores when possible: By delegating small chores, you can actually spend more time with your child and nurture them with the care they need. Doing too many things at one time can make you feel anxious and exhausted. So instead of feeling guilty or overwhelmed, be willing to share your load.
● Practise Self-care: The journey of being a parent to a child with Down's syndrome can be challenging. It is important to make time for yourself and engage in activities that are therapeutic for you. It is important for you to be happy and in the right frame of mind to cater to the needs of your child. Take out some time to read your favourite book or watch your favourite film. Go out for a walk, spend time with your friends and do the things that make you happy. This will keep you relaxed and improve your ability to look after your child.
● Seek professional support: One of the best ways to ensure that your parenting journey goes smoothly is by scheduling regular visits with a therapist you can trust and rely upon. Choosing therapy if things get overwhelming or uncontrollable can help you handle the situation in a better way.
Each child with Down Syndrome has different talents and the ability to thrive. Parenting in itself is the toughest and most fulfilling job that requires a lot of perseverance and when raising a child with Down Syndrome, you might need to juggle a bit more. During this journey, be kind to yourself and prioritise your mental health.
