Friendship and Support

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If you are the parent of a child with a disability or special health care need, you have bigger challenges to overcome than you ever thought possible. There may be days when you feel alone and isolated in your struggle. Maybe you've been so busy taking care of your child's needs and the rest of your family that you don't have time to think about seeking support from those who have walked a similar road.

You are not alone, and a parent support system really can make a difference.

Sometimes, all you need is to talk with another parent — a parent who's been down a similar path and understands. A parent you can share ideas with. Connecting with others who can relate to your journey can offer long-lasting friendship and support.

When my daughter got her first diagnosis, my husband and I felt so lost, confused and alone. I needed to learn everything I could. I needed to find strategies that would help with some of her symptoms. She also has a mental illness, and I was out of ideas on how to help her and my family cope.

I started by Googling her disability. In researching online, I found a group for parents with children like mine! I met many moms like me, but there was one mom that I bonded with immediately. We began chatting and then we finally met.

Ten years later, I speak to her every day. If my family is in crisis mode, I can call her and she always has an idea for us to try. We have laughed, cried and just talked about our children’s disabilities for many hours. I always feel refreshed after we talk. I get the energy to make it through the rest of the day.

There are many ways to make connections and build your support system. A good place to start is online. Try searching for local parent groups that have children similar to yours. There are also groups for specific diagnoses, like autism. Many of these groups provide child care while you attend the meeting. There may also be local faith-based organizations that offer similar services. These groups not only provide valuable information and sharing among parents, but also a social network and a place to make connections.

Texas Parent to Parent is a statewide parent organization that offers, among many other services, parent matching and many contact lists to connect parents and share information. Facebook is another good place to find parent groups for children with disabilities.

You can also search for these groups and others on this website under Find Services, Groups and Events.

Remember, there are other parents going through similar issues as you. It is so important for your emotional health to have someone you can talk to, someone who “gets” it. Having another parent’s support and listening ear can make a huge difference in your life. If this article sounds comforting to you, start looking for connections now!

For more about connecting with other parents, check out the Connecting with Other Parents of Children with Disabilities on this website.