Exploring Psychosocial Distress in Caregivers of Children and Youth With Special Health Care Needs

PURPOSE: Caring for a child or youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN) can be overwhelming. Parents and caregivers may experience psychosocial distress, such as depression, frustration, and hopelessness. The purpose of the current study was to gain further insight into families'perspectives on the psychosocial impacts of caring for CYSHCN to identify gaps in health care systems and strengthen systems of support. METHOD: A qualitative descriptive design was used in 16 parents and caregivers. Colaizzi's method of analysis and semi-structured interviews were used. RESULTS: Six themes emerged from this study: (1) Stigma and Isolation, (2) Religion as a Coping Mechanism, (3) Financial Challenges, (4) Bearing the Burden, (5) Familial Denial, and (6) System-Related Concerns. CONCLUSION: Psychiatric-mental health nurses (PMHNs) are in a pivotal position to use their knowledge, skills, and experiences to guide families. PMHNs can also engage communities and enhance mental health promotion to break the stigma associated with having a CYSHCN.