Parents of neurodivergent children often experience heightened stress due to various factors such as navigating complex educational systems, managing social challenges, financial burdens from therapies, and societal stigma. They often juggle advocating for their child’s needs while facing misconceptions about their parenting abilities. Emotional strain arises from balancing these demands with personal well-being, impacting familial dynamics and mental health. Support networks and accessible resources are crucial in alleviating these stressors, fostering resilience and enhancing the quality of life for both parents and their neurodivergent children.

In this blog, I will shed light on the stress and some simple ways to manage  Stress level experienced by parents of neurodivergent children and effective coping strategies, especially in the present situation

WHAT IS STRESS:
Stress can be defined as a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation. Stress is a natural human response that prompts us to address challenges and threats in our lives. Everyone experiences stress to some degree. It is Non-Specific Response of the Body. It is individual outcome of interaction with his/her environment.

WHETHER STRESS IS GOOD OR BAD:

Stress can be positive or negative, depending on the situation. Positive stressors (called eustress) may include an upcoming wedding, the holidays, or pregnancy. On the other hand, negative stress (called distress) results in the full-blown stress response.
Although the stress response can sometimes be detrimental, in many cases, stress hormones actually induce growth and release chemicals into the body that rebuild cells, synthesize proteins and enhance immunity, leaving the body even stronger and healthier than it was before.

Examples of Negative Stress:
Experiencing relationship strain.
Ending a relationship (either platonic or romantic)
Death of a friend, loved one, or spouse.
Abuse or neglect.
Working a high-pressure job with never-ending demand.
Unaddressed mental or physical health conditions.
Divorce.
Financial difficulty.

Let us  illustrate a practical example of Stress:

As we savored afternoon tea with our family on the 6th floor, a sudden tremor rattled the apartment—a telltale sign of an earthquake. Instantly, our bodies kicked into survival mode, urging us to evacuate. Inside the building, adrenaline surged, heightening our senses. Upon reaching the open field outside, our minds conducted a second appraisal, assessing the threat level once more. As we confirmed our safety, a wave of relief washed over us, and our bodies gradually relaxed. This sequence of reactions exemplifies our innate responses to emergencies, where our instincts guide us from initial shock
to reassurance.

This scenario illustrates our response to negative stressors through two stages of appraisal. Initially, in the Primary Appraisal, we assess the threat posed by the situation—an earthquake, in this case. Following this, in the Secondary Appraisal, we evaluate the resources available to cope with the threat. If sufficient resources are identified—such as a clear evacuation plan and an open field—we experience a reduction in stress. Conversely, if resources are perceived as inadequate—like unclear exits or unstable surroundings—our stress levels may increase as we strive to manage the situation effectively. These appraisals play a crucial role in shaping our emotional and physiological responses to challenging events.

Primary Appraisal is different for each individual and Depend upon PERSONALITY

Whether a person is TABP (Type A Behavior Pattern)

The phrase “Type A” refers to a pattern of behavior and personality associated with high achievement, competitiveness, and impatience, among other characteristics. In particular, the positive traits of a Type A personality include: Self-control. Motivation to achieve results.

There are both positive and negative aspects of a Type A personality. Here is a list of the common Type A personality traits.
Aggressive
Ambitious
Controlling
Highly competitive
Preoccupied with status
Workaholics
Hostile
Lack patience
Time urgency

Type B Personality :
Unlike a Type A personality, Type B personality traits reflect a person who is laid back, who doesn’t let the stress of the workplace or deadlines get to them, and is quite flexible. They are a pleasure to work with, as they maintain calm and focus without the drama of pressuring their employees or coworkers to complete a task.

Type B Personality Traits : There are both positive and negative aspects of a Type B personality. Here is a list of the common Type B personality traits.

Relaxed
Less stressed
Flexible
Emotional
Expressive
Creative
Laid-back attitude
Easy going
Tends to procrastinate
Too friendly at times
No sense of urgency

COPING WITH STRESS:
After a traumatic event, people may have strong and lingering reactions. Learning healthy ways to cope and getting the right care and support can help reduce stressful feelings and symptoms.
The symptoms may be physical or emotional. Common reactions to a stressful event can include:
Disbelief
Feelings of fear, shock, anger, sadness, worry, numbness, or frustration
Changes in appetite, energy, desires, and interests
Difficulty sleeping or nightmares, concentrating, and making decisions
Physical reactions, such as headaches, body pains, stomach problems, and skin rashes
Worsening of chronic health problems
Worsening of mental health conditions
Increased use of tobacco, alcohol, and other substances


Healthy Ways to Cope with Stress:
Feeling emotional and nervous or having trouble sleeping and
eating can all be normal reactions to stress. Here are some healthy ways you can deal with stress:
Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories , including those on social media. It’s good to be informed but hearing about the traumatic event constantly can be upsetting.
Consider limiting news to just a couple of times a day and disconnecting from phone, t v, and computer screens for a while.
Take care of yourself. Eat healthy, exercise, get plenty of sleep, and give yourself a break if you feel stressed out. Take care of your body.
Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate. Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals. Exercise regularly. Get plenty of sleep.
Avoid excessive alcohol, tobacco, and substance use .
Continue with routine preventive measures ( such as vaccinations, cancer screenings, etc.) as recommended by your healthcare
provider.
Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you like.
Talk to others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling. Share your problems and how you are feeling and coping with a parent, friend, counsellor, doctor, or pastor.
Connect with your community- or faith-based organizations. Avoid drugs and alcohol. These may seem to help, but they can create additional problems and increase the stress you are already feeling.
Recognize when you need more help. If problems continue or you are thinking about suicide, talk to a psychologist, social worker, or professional counsellor.


Author
Srinibash Mishra