THE SILENCE OF CAREGIVING: BURDEN, SUPPORT NETWORKS, AND MENTAL HEALTH IN ATYPICAL MOTHERHOOD – AN INTEGRATIVE LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

This integrative review aimed to discuss how psychological support contributes to mental health and coping with psychological distress among mothers of children with disabilities or other conditions requiring ongoing care. Publications from 2020 to 2026 were identified in the Virtual Health Library (including LILACS), SciELO, and Google Scholar. Of 76 records, 23 were included in a synthesis using thematic content analysis, organized into three themes: psychological distress and burden in maternal experience; support networks and access to care; and contributions of psychological support. The corpus comprised 12 empirical studies, five experience reports, and six reviews or literature-based studies. Distress was described in relation to concentrated responsibilities, insufficient support, and difficulties accessing services. Individual sessions, groups, and psychosocial initiatives provided settings to express conflicts, discuss personal needs, and revisit issues concerning life plans. Participation and continuity of support were linked to available time and shared caregiving responsibilities. The review concludes that the practices described can inform responses to maternal needs and proposals compatible with mothers' living conditions, although heterogeneous designs call for caution when interpreting intervention effects.