Effects of a Brief Cognitive-Behavioral + Psychoeducational Intervention on Mental Health of Parents of Children with Special Needs: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Parents of children with special needs often experience high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression due to the unique challenges of caregiving. This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of a brief cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) plus psychoeducation intervention on parental mental health outcomes. One hundred parents were randomized into either an 8-week CBT + psychoeducation group or an active control group receiving general parenting information. Results indicated significant reductions in depression, anxiety, and parental stress among the intervention group compared to controls. Improvements were maintained at 3-month follow-up, with resilience and social support predicting better outcomes. Findings suggest brief CBT + psychoeducational interventions can effectively improve the psychological wellbeing of caregivers of children with special needs.