Mental health assistance for distressed individuals
In a world where the well-being of families is paramount, psychological support for mothers, especially those from socially vulnerable groups and those with many children, can make a profound impact on their lives and the health of their children.
Research shows that by improving maternal mental health, these support systems enhance emotional, cognitive, and social development in children. Reductions in mood and anxiety disorders lead to better outcomes, such as fewer preterm births and improved maternal care, all of which positively affect children’s health and well-being[1]. Economically, treating maternal mental health challenges reduces significant costs related to productivity loss and healthcare needs for both mother and child[1].
Social support programs, tailored for disadvantaged mothers, foster positive coping styles and emotional regulation, leading to improved mental outlooks, better family relationships, and reduced caregiving burdens[2]. These programs help mothers adjust their thinking to overcome difficulties and manage stress proactively, which strengthens resilience and family atmosphere[2].
For working mothers, psychological and wellness programs including mental health counseling, mindfulness, and stress management provide essential emotional support. Such interventions alleviate the mental strain and anxiety of juggling work and parenting responsibilities, making motherhood less isolating and improving overall well-being[3]. Family-focused mental health strategies, like flexible work arrangements and parenting support groups, help caregivers manage children's behavioral health needs better, reducing caregiver stress and improving the family’s functional health environment[5].
In summary, psychological support:
- Improves mothers’ mental health and emotional well-being, reducing anxiety and depression[1][3].
- Leads to healthier child development and fewer adverse birth outcomes[1].
- Enhances positive coping mechanisms and family relationships, reducing caregiver burden[2].
- Supports working mothers in balancing career and parenting stress through structured wellness programs[3].
- Helps address children's mental health needs indirectly by reducing parental stress, thereby improving the entire family's health and productivity[5].
These findings underscore the importance of investing in psychological support for vulnerable mothers, as the benefits extend beyond the immediate family to society at large.
In Kazakhstan, psychological help is still developing, and many are hesitant to seek help due to stereotypes. Over 400 support rooms have been created for this project, staffed by special educators, psychologists, and assistants[4]. The pilot project on inclusive education in Kazakhstan allows children with special educational needs to attend regular schools and receive support[6]. Raushan BIRMAGAMBETOV, a key figure in this project, primarily consults with mothers raising children with special needs, as centers they usually go to work exclusively with children, leaving parents out of the process[7]. Working with mothers along with their children's treatment can significantly improve the children's condition[8].
However, changing the mindset of these individuals is challenging, as many hold beliefs like "It's fate," "It's a trial from the Almighty"[9]. Mothers raising children with special needs may not realize how much they need support themselves[10]. Seeing a psychologist is not a sign of psychosis or weakness, but a normal and beneficial practice that can help unburden emotional weight and understand oneself better[11]. It is not stated whether mothers are afraid of being judged for having a non-standard child[12].
Deep inner work, such as psychotherapeutic work, can help process hidden causes of problematic situations[13]. The "Bolashaq" fund supports children with autism and other developmental peculiarities, with over 80 specialized rooms and rehabilitation centers established[14]. Working with large families is also challenging due to a lack of inner sense of responsibility and fixed ideas among some people[15]. Raushan BIRMAGAMBETOVA provides psychological support to mothers of many children and individuals from socially vulnerable groups[16].
In conclusion, the transformative power of psychological support for vulnerable mothers and their families cannot be overstated. As we continue to break down stereotypes and increase accessibility to these vital resources, we can foster healthier families and societies, ensuring a brighter future for all.
- By providing psychological support for mothers, especially those from socially vulnerable groups, the health and wellness of their families can be significantly improved, leading to better outcomes for both mothers and children.
- Integrating mental health support into education systems, such as the one in Kazakhstan, can help families with children with special needs cope better, promoting general well-being for the whole family.
