In this episode, let’s talk about some ways parents can look after themselves, and the emotional expectations upon learning about your child’s autism diagnosis.

References:

Algood, C.L., Harris, C., & Hong, J.S. (2013). Parenting success and challenges for families of children with disabilities: An ecological systems analysis. Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment, 23(2), 126-136. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/10911359.2012.747408.

Banach, M., Iudice, J., Conway, L., & Couse, L.J. (2010). Family support and empowerment: Post autism diagnosis support group for parents. Social Work with Groups, 33(1), 69-83. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/01609510903437383.

Barlow, J., Powell, L., & Gilchrist, M. (2006). The influence of the training and support programme on the self-efficacy and psychological well-being of parents of children with disabilities: A controlled trial. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 12, 55-63. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ctcp.2005.02.005.

Fernańdez-Alcántara, M., García-Caro, P., Pérez-Marfil, N., Hueso-Montoro, C., Laynez-Rubio, C., & Cruz-Quintana, F. (2016). Feelings of loss and grief in parents of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Research in Developmental Disabilities, 55, 312-321. doi: 10.1016/j.ridd.2016.05.007.

Hsiao, Y.J., Higgins, K., Pierce, T., Whitby, P.J.S., & Tandy, R.D. (2017). Parental stress, family quality of life, and family-teacher partnerships: Families of children with autism spectrum disorder. Research in Developmental Disabilities, 70, 152-162. doi: 10.1016/j.ridd.2017.08.013.

Lai, W.W., Goh, T.J., Oei, T.P.S., & Sund, M. (2015). Coping and well-being in parents of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 45(8), 2582-2593. doi: doi.org/10.1007/s10803-015-2430-9.

Links:

Association for Children with a Disability - https://www.acd.org.au/

https://raisingchildren.net.au/autism/communicating-relationships/family-relationships/family-stress-asd

https://mytime.net.au/

Looking after yourself - https://www.carergateway.gov.au/help-advice/looking-after-yourself

Mental health plan - https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-treatment-plan

For more information, head over to Aspect Australia - www.autismspectrum.org.au.

Disclaimer: I'm not a professional, just a student with a passion for autism.