Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are a newer type of support strategy for families of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The strategy involves mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).
The goal of MBIs is to reduce anxiety, stress, and depressive symptoms in children with ASD and their support systems. The interventions are meant to additionally facilitate more effective emotional regulation and parenting self-efficacy. These programs can be modified for children with high emotional reactivity in a way that improves the child’s emotional awareness and social responsiveness.
According to researchers, parents whose children receive an ASD diagnosis often experience initial emotions like guilt, confusion, denial, shock, and grief. This process is often called “diagnosis resolution.” Experts believe the emotional responses of parents can be influenced by cultural and contextual factors. That said, it’s possible to reduce the stigma and negative emotional responses parents experience that disrupt their lives. Experts also suggest helping parents understand their children’s emotional and mental states better as part of the MBI strategy. Many of the current types of intervention programs often overlook the emotional well-being of parents and caregivers. Since the well-being of care providers is critical to the autistic person’s treatment, newer strategies seek to address family functioning and well-being as an element of the child’s developmental outcome.
Across five different studies published from 2017 to 2022, researchers confirmed that MBI intervention significantly reduces parental stress in families with an autistic child. Three of those studies also highlighted that the MBI strategies led to higher levels of awareness and consciousness in parents.
Two studies showed significantly lower overall levels of stress, depression, and anxiety in parents who utilized MBI strategies.
The Heart of MBI: Understanding Autism Together
At its core, MBI strategies seek to allow families to understand autism together and establish effective communication. By managing challenging behaviors and responses, treatment methods can help autistic children establish routines, develop coping skills, and become more autonomous.
The goal of every autism treatment plan should include creating a supportive environment where the child can thrive. This should always include nurturing the well-being of the family.
Here at the Nevada Autism Center, our team agrees with the leading research. That’s why we strive to offer family guidance. We want your family to be an active part of your child’s therapy and progress. We also offer community support to help your child grow and utilize the general skills they learn in their sessions.
If your child attends public school, then they’ll greatly benefit from our school readiness programs. We offer opportunities for natural play in model classrooms. Our goal is to help ensure your child has the tools necessary to feel prepared for school. For even more support, we offer summer camps that focus on social skills specifically designed for school readiness.
Get started on the enrollment process by filling out our online form now, or you can call our team directly at (702) 660-2005.
