A Comparative Study of Mental Health Challenges in Parents of Children with Genetic versus Non-Genetic Conditions in Rwanda.

Background: This study addresses a critical gap in research by examining the psychosocial impact on parents of children with genetic diseases compared to those with non-genetic conditions. While existing literature mainly focuses on medical aspects, it overlooks the emotional and mental health challenges faced by these parents.

Objectives: The main objective was to investigate and compare levels of depression, anxiety, perceived stress, parenting stress, self-esteem, and intimate partner violence between parents of children with genetic diseases and parents of children with non-genetic conditions.

Method: A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted with 100 caretakers of children with genetic diseases and 109 caretakers of patients with non-genetic diseases. Data were collected using standardized measures of self-esteem, intimate partner violence, perceived stress, and the Parenting Stress. Independent sample t-tests were performed to compare the means between the two groups.

Results: Parents of children with genetic diseases exhibited significantly higher levels of depression (t(207) = 5.683, p < 0.001), anxiety (t(207)= 6.107, p<0.001), perceived stress (t(207)=11.680, p<0.001), parenting stress (t(207)= 12.893, p<0.001), and intimate partner violence (t(207)= 10.617, p < 0.001) compared to parents of children with non-genetic conditions. Low self-esteem was also more prevalent in the case group (t(207)=-14.565, p<0.001).

Conclusion: These findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive support systems to address the psychosocial challenges faced by parents and caregivers of children with genetic diseases. Recognition and targeted interventions for these issues can significantly enhance healthcare services, benefiting both patients and their parents.