How can siblings of chronically ill or disabled children be supported?

Abstract

Background: Burdens and resources of healthy siblings of chronically ill/ disabled children have been rarely investigated; results show a decreased quality of life and a higher risk for developing mental health/ behavior problems. The study aims to grasp the need for and what kind of support should be offered. Methods: 20 participants (10 actually adult siblings and 10 experts) were asked by using semi-structured interviews with regard to burdens and resources as well as whether and how primary-prevention interventions should be offered. Interviews were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Findings: Siblings reported (positive/ negative) impacts the ill child had on their lives and expressed that a group-offer would have been good at that time. It is consistently estimated that providing support is important. The experts described similar burdens, but also resources. Child-friendly teaching of coping strategies and resource-activation were described as important elements of support. Discussion: Results of the interviews showed that it is important to implement support for siblings of chronically ill / disabled children to offer age-appropriate education and to strengthen life skills.