Salud mental en familias con hijos con trastorno del espectro autista

Abstract

The mental health of families with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is compromised due to the absence of information and psychological interventions focused on this problem; within this context, factors of stress, anxiety, and depression are triggered, which are linked to changes in routine, acceptance, and adaptation to a new reality and, therefore, in the quality of life and family functionality. In this regard, an intervention plan was implemented with a Cognitive Behavioral approach focused on family therapy, intending to provide each family member with strategies or skills to work on communication and coexistence, together with emotional regulation closely related to stress and anxiety. The results are presented qualitatively according to the data coding and quantitatively through comparing pre-treatment and post-treatment. Finally, it is concluded that the evident changes following the diagnosis of a child with ASD lead to an imbalance in the family unit, affecting rules, agreements, and roles, all of which contribute to the family's functionality.