Emotional assistance for individuals in distress
In Kazakhstan, a significant stride has been made in the realm of inclusive education, with over 400 support classrooms established to cater to children with special educational needs as part of a pilot project. However, the journey towards creating a supportive environment doesn't end there. Psychological support for mothers, particularly those raising children with special needs, is proving to be a vital component in the overall well-being of both the mothers and their children.
Research indicates that psychological support for mothers can lead to a myriad of benefits. These include improved emotional well-being, reduced stress and depressive symptoms, enhanced parenting skills, and healthier family dynamics. Such support also contributes to better mental health outcomes for children and helps mothers manage complex family stressors effectively.
One of the key advantages is the reduction of emotional stress and depressive symptoms. Psychological support aids mothers in handling the heightened stress related to large family responsibilities and socio-economic challenges, leading to improved mental health.
Enhanced parenting and coping skills are another significant benefit. Support programs offer parenting education, positive bonding techniques, and stress management strategies, which are especially valuable for vulnerable populations, including teen parents and large families.
Better family relationships and emotional well-being are also a result of psychological interventions. These interventions help set boundaries, improve communication, and develop constructive coping mechanisms that benefit overall family dynamics.
The positive developmental outcomes for children should not be overlooked. Supporting mothers’ mental health indirectly fosters healthier emotional, behavioral, and social development in their children.
Effective provision of support can be achieved through relationship-based mental health services, community-based and peer support systems, integration of formal and family care resources, and self-care and boundary-setting education. Local agencies and family-focused organizations play a crucial role in offering accessible, culturally sensitive services tailored towards these populations.
However, changing the mindset of some individuals is a challenge. Many are afraid to seek psychological help due to stereotypes, while others may unconsciously maintain their problems to receive attention, help, or sympathy. Working with families who have children with special needs can also be challenging due to a lack of internal sense of responsibility and set ideas like "It's fate".
The "Bolashaq" fund, which supports children with autism and other developmental differences, has established over 80 specialized classrooms and rehabilitation centers. However, the centers primarily work with children, leaving parents on the sidelines. Psychotherapeutic work with mothers is increasingly being recognized as a crucial component in the overall support system.
In conclusion, psychological support for mothers in Kazakhstan should be comprehensive, trauma-informed, and incorporate both professional and community resources to effectively address the multifaceted needs of these groups. Behind every difficulty, there's usually some kind of trauma or pain. Acknowledging this and taking steps to address it can lead to a brighter future for both mothers and their children. Going to a psychologist is not a sign of psychosis or weakness, but a normal and beneficial practice, especially for families dealing with children with special needs.
- To promote a brighter future for mothers raising children with special needs in Kazakhstan, comprehensive and trauma-informed psychological support should be implemented, encompassing both professional and community resources.
- Such psychological support can lead to improved emotional well-being, reduced stress and depressive symptoms, enhanced parenting skills, and healthier family dynamics, ultimately contributing to better mental health outcomes for both mothers and their children.
- Furthermore, the provision of mental health services should focus on breaking down stereotypes around seeking help, ensuring that families with children with special needs understand that going to a psychologist is a normal and beneficial practice.
