Support for carers and family of people with developmental disability

General practitioners (GPs) should be alert to and ask about signs that family members are stressed or exhausted from their caring role. This is particularly relevant if the person with developmental disability has challenging behaviour.

The period of diagnosis of a child’s disability can be difficult for parents. See advice on an approach to discussing a developmental disability diagnosis.

The GP can support carers and family of people with developmental disability by:

• explaining medical reports provided by others
• referring them for respite care, counselling or other support as required
• informing them about services and resources that can assist with care of the person with developmental disability—see Social and functional support
• involving them in the development of the person’s management plan
• encouraging forward planning including identification of future primary caregiver(s); see also Consent, capacity and decision making and Advance care planning for people with developmental disability.

The siblings of a person with developmental disability often assist with care. Although this can be a rewarding experience, the mental health and wellbeing of siblings can be significantly impacted. External factors that may negatively affect the siblings of a person with developmental disability include bullying, social isolation and curtailed opportunities. Complex emotional dynamics can also arise within the family, further contributing to challenges for siblings. This can be exacerbated by aggressive or challenging behaviour from the person with developmental disability.

The GP should consider the wellbeing and support needs of siblings; relevant referrals might include a psychologist or counsellor. Sibling support groups can also be helpful. For information on supporting siblings of children with developmental disability, see Raising Children Network and Siblings Australia.