Sometimes, you need to say “ Screw it ” and take that break” As special needs parents and caregivers, we are used to being strong and ever-present. The word “ Break ” doesn’t exist in our vocabulary, except when we see intense moments of distress and realize that we need to rest. At the Exhale Conference 6.0, I had the honor of moderating a session on creating a sustainable future for children with special needs and I was reminded of one thing- Now is the time to start planning for the future. Not tomorrow, not next week, but now. But guess what? Your long-term planning for the children won’t be effective if you don't take care of yourself. The future is not just about setting up a trust fund but taking care of ourselves to ensure we can continue this journey with resilience and strength. The Exhale Conference was organized by a powerhouse, Mrs. Bukola Ayinde, a disability advocate and a special needs mother to a child with cerebral palsy. It was the first time meeting Mrs. Ayind
What if I told you that 60% of caregivers of disabled individuals have considered suicide? Especially this writer. Although the theme for this World Mental Health Day is "Work-life balance, I will focus on the aspect of the mental health of persons with disabilities and their caregivers. First of all, I’m glad that the world is recognizing that mental health is essential. However, some people still struggle with the fact that their words and actions have an effect. A few months ago, I wrote a story of a special needs mother killing herself, after killing her child with Autism. Extreme? This may seem fictitious, but it is real. What if I told you that this happens all the time? I feel like everyone runs away from the topic of mental health because they believe that everything should be fine. What if it’s not fine? What if you need help? A month ago, I had the worst meltdown in my life; The thing about unhealthy thoughts is that they spiral out of control and lead to differen