Higher depression risk for parents of kids with special needs

Parents of children with learning disabilities are almost twice as likely to suffer from depression than other parents, but fewer than half receive treatment.

They are also at greater risk of physical ill-health, with respiratory diseases, arthritis, back pain, digestive complaints, diabetes, and other chronic conditions particularly prevalent.

The findings — from a University of Limerick study — have prompted calls for better supports for parents of children with special needs, and greater recognition of their need for treatment when they are depressed.