Studies show that there is a higher incidence of mental and health problems in children in foster care, with many having an increased risk of ADHD, asthma, and depression. If you are caring for a child in foster care, here’s how you can provide help.
Get a Handle on the Situation
There is no easy fix for depression, and trying to sweep it under the rug or ignoring the problem isn’t going to make it go away. You’ll want to take time to find out what’s happening and to understand the situation.
Understand the Factors
Knowing what the risk factors are will help you get a better idea of what contributes to the condition. For instance, poverty, occupational or marital difficulties, and poor communication between the parents and the child are common factors. Aggressive or hostile behavior of a parent towards the child is also one. By understanding what factors are in play, you know what could be causing the depression. That’s a good first step in finding help for children in foster care.
Make Time for Play
Children in foster care don’t often have the chance to be kids, with many missing out on having fun or playing simple games. This affects their emotional and behavioral development. By supporting a foster care organization that makes these activities possible for the kids, you can help give them a chance to feel normal.
Provide Therapy
Therapy is a must, but choosing the right therapist can be difficult. Experts recommend contacting your school’s guidance counselor, attending free parenting workshops or lectures where you can listen to therapists discuss their work, or get a referral from a trusted friend or professional who is familiar with the trauma that is experienced by children in foster care.
Donate
Donations to children in foster care do more than you can imagine. Funding for children in foster care allow children opportunities for fun and play that can ease their depression and anxiety. To learn more about how you can help, donate to a foster care organization like The Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation.