CARING FOR THOSE WHO CARE: THE IMPORTANCE OF THE SUPPORT NETWORK FOR THE MENTAL HEALTH OF MOTHERS OF AUTISTIC CHILDREN

Abstract

This article sought to understand how the relationship between the mental health of mothers of children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and the social support provided to them during motherhood is revealed. Considering the significant increase in cases worldwide, ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that has become the focus of numerous studies and research across various fields of knowledge. Therefore, it is essential not only to investigate the disorder itself but also the contexts in which it occurs. This study was shaped by field research through the application of an online questionnaire, which included the participation of 57 brazilian women. The results pointed to the emotional and physical consequences of the lack of a support network and to the development of new strategies for assisting this population.