'Different things at different times': Wellbeing strategies and processes identified by parents of children who have an intellectual disability or who are autistic, or both

Background: Most parents of children with an intellectual disability or who are autistic identify positives in their family life and their own wellbeing, in addition to reported mental health challenges. Several models and interventions have been developed in relation to parent carer wellbeing. Few studies have asked parent carers how they support their own wellbeing.

Method: Adopting an interpretive phenomenological approach this study utilised semi-structured interviews. Seventeen parent carers were asked and what supported their emotional wellbeing. Template Analysis was applied to develop themes.

Results: All participants identified factors that supported their wellbeing. Themes included strategies that countered stress time for themselves, relaxation, 'parking' difficulties) and broader wellbeing strategies (finding meaning life direction, greater understanding of child). An ongoing process of supporting wellbeing by 'Reorienting and finding balance' appeared central.

Conclusions: Self-identified, multi-dimensional strategies benefit parents' emotional wellbeing and should be considered in the context of support provided to families.