Between care and collapse: the hidden health and emotional struggles of Saudi mothers of children with Down syndrome

Caring for a child with Down syndrome represents a profoundly complex life experience that demands constant presence and sustained effort from mothers, often becoming a dual source of fulfillment and exhaustion. As daily responsibilities accumulate alongside continuous medical follow-ups, the resulting pressures gradually undermine mothers' overall balance and well-being. This study seeks to deepen the understanding of this intricate experience by exploring the intertwined health and emotional struggles encountered by mothers while caring for their children with Down syndrome. A qualitative research design was adopted, employing semi-structured interviews with fifteen mothers of children diagnosed with Down syndrome who were enrolled in a rehabilitation center. Data were collected and analyzed thematically to identify core patterns that reflect the enduring pressures associated with long-term caregiving. The analysis revealed two overarching themes: health challenges, which encompassed the sub-themes of persistent physical fatigue and limited preventive care; and emotional challenges, which included continuous emotional strain and fluctuating family support. The findings underscore that the prolonged demands of caregiving impose an escalating burden that significantly affects mothers' physical balance and emotional well-being, highlighting the need for comprehensive, integrative interventions that strengthen mothers' ability to sustain their caregiving role effectively and with greater stability.