1,500 mothers of childrenwith disabilities join group therapy to improve mental health

Mothers of children with disabilities in Quang Tri Province took part in therapy sessions aimed at improving their mental health.

The Quang Tri Department of Health, in collaboration with Medipeace, organized a conference to conclude a project aimed at improving the mental health of mothers of children with disabilities during the 2022-2024 period. The project focused on creating psychological support systems for 500 mothers across three districts of Hai Lang, Trieu Phong, and Gio Linh.During the 2022-2024 period, the project trained 20 community healthcare workers in psychological support systems. It also conducted 75 group therapy sessions with 1,500 participants, helping mothers improve their confidence, reduce stress, and enhance their skills in caring for themselves and their children. A survey revealed that 102 out of 105 mothers expressed satisfaction with the program’s content and effectiveness.

The scene of the project review conference - Photo: K.SFor remote psychological therapy, the project carried out 180 one-on-one online sessions for 15 high-risk mothers, achieving a 63% satisfaction rate. Additionally, the project organized various activities such as social gatherings, recreational events, beauty care sessions, and family photo shoots, providing mothers opportunities to make new friends, share experiences, and alleviate stress.End-of-project surveys showed a significant decrease in caregivers classified as being at high risk for severe depression or anxiety. The percentage of those at extremely high risk dropped from 8% to 0.6% (a 92.4% reduction), while those at high risk fell from 17.6% to 2.4% (an 86.3% reduction). The confidence levels of mothers with children with disabilities increased significantly.Speaking at the conference, Director of the Department of Health, Do Van Hung, said that the project's values and lessons would continue to spread.

Director of the Department of Health Do Van Hung and Suh Dong Youb, Chairman of Medipeace, present certificates to individuals who participated in and completed training courses on community mental health care - Photo: K.S. “I hope that mothers would apply the knowledge gained, maintain their connections, and inspire other families,” Hung said.He also urged for greater support from organizations and communities to establish a more comprehensive support system for families of children with disabilities.The conference also presented certificates to individuals who completed mental health care training programs in the community, recognizing their positive contributions to the project.

Kan Suong - Tung Lam