Mental health challenges for caregivers of children with special needs around Acornhoek, Bohlabela District, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa
1
Health, University of Limpopo, Mankweng, South Africa
Popul. Med. 2026;8(Supplement Supplement 1):A2612
ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT:
MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES FOR CAREGIVERS OF CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS AROUND ACORNHOEK, BOHLABELA DISTRICT, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE, SOUTH AFRICA
BACKGROUND:
Caregivers of children with special needs often face unique and significant mental health challenges that impact their well-being and ability to provide care. In rural areas, this challenges are often compounded by limited resources and systemic barriers. Understanding these challenges is crucial for developing effective support mechanisms.
METHODS:
A qualitative, interpretivist-phenomenological research design was employed to gain deep insights into caregivers' lived experiences. Data were collected from nine participants through semi-structured, face-to-face interviews with caregivers of children with special needs. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, translated, and analysed.
RESULTS:
Four main themes emerged from the study; these included, Psychological challenges, stigma and subsequent health problems; Occupation and financial burden; Systemic failures by government departments and hope for the child’s future; and lastly, Copying mechanisms. These themes revealed that caregivers experiences considerable psychological distress; including stress, frustration, emotional pain, and denial. Stigma and negative public attitudes worsened their mental health, often causing physical symptoms such as high blood pressure and sleep disturbances. Financial strain and employment challenges due to caregiving responsibilities were also significant stressors. Additionally, systemic inefficiencies in accessing disability grants, special education, and healthcare services contributed to caregiver’s burden. Despite these difficulties, caregivers demonstrated resilience through acceptance and reliance on family and community support.
CONCLUSIONS:
There are multifaceted challenges faced by caregivers of children with special needs in rural areas. Addressing these challenges requires strengthened community support and improved government services to alleviate caregiver burden. There is a need to strengthen community participation and improve government services. That way, Sustainable Development Goal 3 may be achieved in rural areas
MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES FOR CAREGIVERS OF CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS AROUND ACORNHOEK, BOHLABELA DISTRICT, MPUMALANGA PROVINCE, SOUTH AFRICA
BACKGROUND:
Caregivers of children with special needs often face unique and significant mental health challenges that impact their well-being and ability to provide care. In rural areas, this challenges are often compounded by limited resources and systemic barriers. Understanding these challenges is crucial for developing effective support mechanisms.
METHODS:
A qualitative, interpretivist-phenomenological research design was employed to gain deep insights into caregivers' lived experiences. Data were collected from nine participants through semi-structured, face-to-face interviews with caregivers of children with special needs. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, translated, and analysed.
RESULTS:
Four main themes emerged from the study; these included, Psychological challenges, stigma and subsequent health problems; Occupation and financial burden; Systemic failures by government departments and hope for the child’s future; and lastly, Copying mechanisms. These themes revealed that caregivers experiences considerable psychological distress; including stress, frustration, emotional pain, and denial. Stigma and negative public attitudes worsened their mental health, often causing physical symptoms such as high blood pressure and sleep disturbances. Financial strain and employment challenges due to caregiving responsibilities were also significant stressors. Additionally, systemic inefficiencies in accessing disability grants, special education, and healthcare services contributed to caregiver’s burden. Despite these difficulties, caregivers demonstrated resilience through acceptance and reliance on family and community support.
CONCLUSIONS:
There are multifaceted challenges faced by caregivers of children with special needs in rural areas. Addressing these challenges requires strengthened community support and improved government services to alleviate caregiver burden. There is a need to strengthen community participation and improve government services. That way, Sustainable Development Goal 3 may be achieved in rural areas
| eISSN: | 2654-1459 |
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