How Autism Affects Families: The Good and Bad Sides

Researchers often examine how a diagnosis impacts individuals on the spectrum, but it’s equally important to consider how autism affects families. From navigating services to providing daily support, families face unique challenges as they strive to help their loved ones lead fulfilling lives.

Studies have found that autism mothers had higher levels of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) when compared to the rest of the population. The diagnosis provides both positive and challenging experiences for loved ones. Understanding how autism affects families can help us provide better support and help those on this unique journey.  

Understanding the family dynamics with autism

We have often heard the phrase, “When you have seen one person with autism, you have seen one person with autism.” This could also be applied to families, as they vary and are unique depending on their dynamic and culture.

The tendency in many families can be to focus on the needs of the autistic child, which can create an imbalance.  

It is important to acknowledge that each family member is affected differently. Parents can feel that those with typical families simply do not understand. 

Not having time for each other as a couple can bring marital strain and strife. The siblings of a child with autism spectrum disorder may act out or withdraw if they feel their brother or sister receives an overwhelming amount of attention.  

The financial strain of additional services, taking time off work to find support, and securing respite care can add additional stress to an already challenged family dynamic.

Daily familial routines and roles may have to shift to accommodate the changing needs of an autistic child. Families may also have to adjust their already full calendars to accommodate therapies or educational and counseling services.

Established roles and routines may shift at the drop of a hat when appointments are changed, canceled, or added. It is essential to recognize that you are not alone in your stress.

Research shows that 47% of caregivers of autistic children and adults report having felt severe stress at some point in raising their families.

How are parents affected by autism?

Without a doubt, parenting is the most challenging role that anyone will undertake in one’s life. Parenting affected by autism can be exponentially more difficult.

Behaviors exhibited by a son or daughter on the spectrum can be unpredictable, physically demanding, and emotionally taxing. Depending on the degree of impairment, communication can be a challenge.

The time it may take to parent a child with autism may make it seem there’s little time for being a couple or time for oneself. This can add marital stress and emotional strife.

While other families watch their children gain independence and leave home, this process may be delayed or never happen for families of autistic children.

For some families, the feeling that others are unable to empathize with your family’s challenges is common. This could lead to a feeling of isolation.

Understanding the family dynamics with autism

Understanding the way autism spectrum disorder affects the family can be difficult to measure. Each of our families has its own inherent structure, strengths, and obstacles. 

Parents must balance emotional stress, financial strains, and the role of advocate in a world that often fails to accommodate their family’s unique needs.

Siblings of children on the spectrum also face unique challenges. They may feel resentment or jealousy of the inordinate amount of time their sibling may need.

They may also feel pressured to act as a “little parent” or worry about the social stigma surrounding their autistic sibling’s behaviors.

Extended family members may struggle to grasp the full scope of challenges faced by an autism family, sometimes offering unsolicited advice despite limited experience. They may also hesitate to join social outings due to concerns about the child’s behaviors.

Managing challenges of autism parenting

Although parenting an autistic child can be challenging, it also brings plenty of positive moments, rewards, and joys. However, this may require advocating and setting some boundaries first.

Establishing clear, predictable routines while making time for adult connection and personal interests can help maintain balance and well-being.

This may mean seeking a support system or respite care that you trust and is available regularly. If you feel guilty about doing so, remember that you cannot be at your best for any of your family if you are not at your best for yourself.

Pride or fear can sometimes make asking for assistance difficult. Seek help from the special needs community, which has been where you are. Before you become overwhelmed and burnt out, delegate tasks and duties.  

It is unreasonable to think one person can or should handle everything. Build a network and share your energy and resources to help each other. If necessary, seek professional help and counseling for additional support.

Embracing the journey with strength and joy 

One day, our children are infants, and the next, they grow into adults in a manner that defies time and logic. Enjoy the time with your child, and take each day and moment at a time. We cannot change the past or alter the future—the present is all we have.

An autistic child offers unconditional love, authenticity, and joy in life’s simplest moments—lessons that can inspire and strengthen families and individuals. The joy is in the unique journey and honor of watching our children grow into happy adults at their own pace and speed.

FAQs

Q: How does autism affect families?

A: ASD affects families in unique ways. Loved ones may experience stress, frustration, and strained relationships. Siblings of autistic children may feel jealousy or isolation from their parents and peers.

Q: How does autism affect the parents of children?

A: Parenting an autistic child can strain quality time between partners and push personal needs aside. Parents must set aside regular time for themselves, even if just an hour, to stay emotionally healthy and maintain their relationship.

Q: How does autism affect the family financially?

A: Therapies, respite, and other supports often come with high expenses, while taking time off work can create additional financial strain for autism families. It’s estimated that families with a member on the spectrum spend over 25% of their income on services and face an average of $4,000 more in out-of-pocket costs compared to other families.

Q: How does autism affect quality of life?

A: Autism brings gifts like appreciating life’s simple moments, seeing things from new perspectives, and fostering patience. While it poses challenges that test families emotionally, financially, and physically, it ultimately strengthens the bonds that unite them.

The post How Autism Affects Families: The Good and Bad Sides appeared first on Autism Parenting Magazine.

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