Experiences of mothers of children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactive disorder in a government clinic in Gauteng

Abstract: The mothers of children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder experienced various challenges while raising their children. The objectives of this study were as follows: to explore and describe the experiences of the mothers of children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, and to describe guidelines to facilitate the mental health of these mothers. The research design followed was qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual in nature. Phenomenological in-depth interviews were conducted, observation and field notes were utilised as means of data collection. Data saturation occurred after eight interviews. Tesch’s method of data analysis was utilised. An independent coder utilised for data analysis. In phase one, five themes with various categories were identified, discussed and supported by relevant literature control. Phase two described guidelines to be utilised by the mothers, families and the mental health care staff to mobilise resources to facilitate the mental health of these mothers. The results of the interviews were in accordance with themes and categories. Stated below are the five main themes which were identified from the data. Theme one was related to the participants experiencing psychological stress in having a child diagnosed with ADHD. This resulted in these mothers having feelings of loss of control, loss of self esteem, devastation and the need of family support. The mothers experienced losing self control due to intolerance with regard to the behaviour of their children diagnosed with ADHD. The children behaviour included ignoring their mothers, throwing temper tantrums, mess the home and break things. The mothers experienced feelings of shame and embarrassment by their children’s behaviour while in public places, with relatives or friends. These mothers also verbalised that they experience isolation and rejection by their partners and family members. Furthermore, these mothers stated that they are also left to carry the burden alone...M.Cur. (Psychiatric Nursing