Palejowe ABC - SUPPORT GROUP

As a result, parental burnout is common. One study compared a control group of parents of healthy children with a group of parents of chronically ill children. It found that 36% of parents of sick children showed clinical symptoms of burnout. However, 20% of the control group also suffered from burnout. These results should not come as a surprise, however, given the burden of responsibilities and social pressures that parents are subjected to.

A burned-out parent has less energy and less patience. It can be virtually impossible to recover without outside support and understanding. In such moments, a helping hand can be found in support groups for parents - not only professional ones, but also informal ones formed by the caregivers themselves.

Studies show that support groups help develop and nurture parenting skills, a sense of strength, a sense of belonging to a group, and even self-esteem. As they say - in a group there is strength. It's worth seeking out and joining one where we feel comfortable and can share our difficulties, fears, but also joys without fear.

Parents sometimes think they are bad parents if their child has problems. As a result, their shame and embarrassment may prevent them from talking to other parents about their experiences. In addition, caregivers may feel that they are the only ones facing difficulties, and that other families have an easier and more peaceful life. The feeling that other parents have excellent relationships with their children and know what to do when their child is suffering, while only we are lost in the meanderings of parenting can effectively undermine our well-being. That's why a safe support group is an invaluable experience to be a part of.

Contact with other imperfect parents reminds caregivers that they are not alone, and that other parents experience similar situations and challenges on a daily basis. In a trusted place, one can talk to other people who will understand one's emotions and needs. Being able to talk things out and "let off steam" in a safe environment, surrounded by people who will refrain from judgment and criticism is an important part of parenting. With the feedback, guidance and suggestions we receive, we can take a slightly sideways look at the situations we experience, and then approach ourselves and our child with more gentleness, and step by step modify what is not working.

Being part of a group is a reminder that there are no perfect parents or perfect children

Contact with others in a similar situation gives us access to information and resources. For example, parents can get directions to trustworthy and knowledgeable professionals, services, books and helpful websites.

In the current environment, it can be very difficult to find a group that meets regularly. That is why it is worth looking at places on the Internet. There are plenty of groups designed for parents, but not all of them can offer us what we need. In some of them, instead of support and understanding, you may face a wave of criticism and insults. Therefore, before we open ourselves to strangers on the Internet, let's do a selection and check carefully whether this particular group is worth our trust and attention.

Often parents first seek out a supportive group when they are in the midst of a crisis. They may then have difficulty imagining that things will ever get better. In addition, they may be terrified not only of their health, but also of their own and their children's futures.

As a result, spending time with other parents can bring them relief. Stories of people who have already undergone treatment and are making steady progress are particularly helpful. Such stories add strength and hope.

Support groups for parents bring many benefits to caregivers. Surrounded by understanding people, it's easier to take on the challenges of parenting. Inspiring stories, sharing tips, and building their base of supportive contacts makes parents feel better equipped to help their children. And in addition to the benefits of supporting their own child, they may find their soulmate with whom they become lifelong friends.

Every parent has times of self-doubt. We all make mistakes along the way. The key to accepting this is to find people in whose company we feel comfortable and have the opportunity to share difficulties, but also to grow.

Literature:

Law M., King S., Stewart D., King G. (2001) The Perceived Effects of Parent-Led Support Groups for Parents of Children with Disabilities, Physical & Occupational Therapy in Pediatrics

Alfredsson E.K., Broberg A.G. (2016) Universal parent support groups for parents of adolescents: Which parents participate and why?, Scandinavian Journal of Psychology

Lindström C., Aman J., Norberg A.L. (2010) Increased prevalence of burnout symptoms in parents of chronically ill children, Acta Paediatrica