Parents' experiences of caring for a child with an eating disorder: the impact of financial challenges.

Abstract

Background: Research has highlighted significant challenges associated with caring for a child or adolescent with an eating disorder, and that the impacts on the family are both long-standing and widespread. Within the literature, parents have reported that all aspects of their lives were affected, including their occupational functioning and financial situation. This study explored parents' experiences of the challenges associated with caring for a child with an eating disorder, focusing on the financial implications and the effect of these on the family and treatment.

Methods: Using the exploratory descriptive qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were completed with 12 parents recruited from a child and adolescent eating disorder service. Interview transcripts were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results: The overarching theme generated was Life is completely different living with the eating disorder. The analysis process yielded nine sub-themes, which were grouped into three main themes: (1) Financial costs, (2) Financial impact on us, and (3) Things that helped. Parents reported significant interrelated psychosocial and economic impacts, which were exacerbated by their child's resistance to treatment, an unpredictable course of illness, and a lack of understanding about eating disorders at a societal level.

Conclusions: The findings suggest financial pressures exacerbate the significant caregiver burden and, without adequate financial support, some families struggle to afford essential treatment costs, both of which can impede recovery. Thus, services must address the financial implications and each family's unique situation throughout the assessment and treatment process. Services can mitigate burdens for parents by tailoring support to families' needs, offering foodbank vouchers, providing information on benefits, and assisting with reclaiming parking and public transport costs. Further research is required to assess the extent of the financial burden and its impact on treatment, and to determine which individuals are most affected.