The Fight or Flight Response: Internalized Stress in Special Needs Parents
Having a special needs child can be equally as stressful as grieving for a family member. It is a long-lasting grief with its own stages, and it keeps parents on high alert mode. It’s no surprise that this kind of stress can cause parents to internalize their emotions and store their trauma. Parents of special needs children are constantly in a fight or flight mode, which is like a thermostat in their body that gets turned up and stays sensitive.
As a result, excessive stress can occur, and unresolved trauma or chronic stress can leave parents trapped in a sympathetic response. This means that even if they are not actively thinking about the trauma, their bodies remain in high alert mode, causing them to feel exhausted and burnt out. It’s essential for parents of special needs children to understand this and take the necessary steps to restore their nervous system and get rid of the stored trauma and stress.
Breaking the Cycle: The Importance of Prioritizing Self-Care
One of the most powerful ways to relieve stress is through physical activity. Exercise has been shown to reset the nervous system, healing anxiety, trauma, and PTSD. There are various workouts that parents can try, such as yoga, massage, deep belly breathing, and acupressure. It’s important for parents to prioritize their own well-being and health, just as they do their special needs child. Taking care of oneself will not only benefit the parents but also their child as they will be better equipped to handle the challenges that come with raising a special needs child. It’s crucial to seek out support from family, friends, or professionals who understand and can help them navigate their emotions and experiences.
Seeking Support: Navigating the Emotional Challenges
Parents can also try engaging in hobbies, practicing self-care, and seeking out therapy or counseling. In conclusion, parenting a special needs child can be incredibly challenging, and parents must take care of their mental and physical well-being. Physical activity is a powerful tool in reducing stress and restoring the nervous system. However, seeking support and engaging in self-care are also essential steps that can help parents navigate their emotions and experiences. By prioritizing their own health and well-being, parents will not only improve their own quality of life but also provide the best possible care for their special needs child.
