How can professionals working with disabled children support parent carer mental health and avoid exacerbating challenges?

SEN and Disabilities Seminar Series 2024/25

Presented by Dr Joanna Griffin, University of Warwick

Parents of disabled children are sometimes referred to as ‘parent carers’. This seminar will focus on the risks to parent carer mental health including depression, anxiety, trauma and suicidality. It will raise awareness of some of the factors that can contribute to poorer wellbeing in parent carers, and explore ways in which professionals supporting families can help (and avoid exacerbating challenges). The session will provide a broader perspective on the systems around parent carers and the impact this can have on families. It will discuss strategies that can forge greater understanding and connection between parent and professional.

Dr Joanna Griffin is a Chartered Counselling Psychologist and Assistant Professor at the University of Warwick. She runs the website www.affinityhub.uk and author of the book ‘Day by Day: Emotional Wellbeing in Parents of Disabled Children’ (amzn.to/3k1NReK). Jo is also a parent carer.