Author: Ewa Staruch
People with disabilities constitute a significant and diverse social group whose daily challenges and needs are often neglected. Psychosocial support is crucial in ensuring a more fulfilling and satisfying life for them.
Psychosocial support is a process of interaction in which individuals experiencing emotional, social, or life difficulties receive support from others, both emotional and practical. For people with disabilities, support is essential because it focuses not only on physical aspects but also on psychological and social aspects. The development of this concept is linked to the belief that disability does not define the entire person and that everyone deserves a fuller and more active life.
Psychosocial support is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it helps cope with emotional challenges that may arise from disabilities. Many individuals experience feelings such as frustration, sadness, or helplessness, which can lead to social isolation and mental health issues. Support from the environment can help alleviate these emotions, and social acceptance leads to increased self-esteem for people with disabilities. Actions promoting acceptance and understanding of disabilities create a more inclusive society. This support can impact reducing prejudices and stereotypes against people with disabilities.
Supporting people with disabilities can be done in various ways.
Emotional support:
- Listening and expressing empathy – People with disabilities may need someone to listen to them, understand them, and provide support in difficult times.
- Motivation and reinforcement support – Loved ones can help individuals with disabilities maintain positive thinking and build their inner strength.
Instrumental support:
- Assistance in daily activities – People with disabilities may need help with daily activities such as dressing, meal preparation, or personal hygiene, improving overall comfort in daily functioning.
- Environmental adaptation – Making environmental adjustments, such as at home or in the workplace, to facilitate the daily functioning of people with disabilities.
Informational support:
- Providing information – People with disabilities may need information about available medical services, rights, and benefits that can help them.
- Education – Providing information about various aspects of disability and coping strategies can help individuals with disabilities understand and accept their situation.
Social support:
- Participation in support groups – Support groups can be a place where people with disabilities meet others who share similar experiences and exchange experiences and coping strategies.
- Building relationships – Assisting people with disabilities in establishing and maintaining social relationships can counteract isolation.
Professional and educational support:
- Training programs – Individuals with disabilities can benefit from educational programs and training that help them acquire new skills and increase their chances of employment.
- Workplace and education adjustments – Ensuring appropriate accommodations in workplaces or educational settings, such as infrastructure adjustments to meet the needs of people with disabilities.
Therapeutic support:
- Psychological therapy – People with disabilities can benefit from individual or group therapy to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression.
- Occupational therapy – Occupational therapy can help individuals with disabilities develop social, emotional, and motor skills.
Research indicates that psychosocial support positively impacts the quality of life for people with disabilities. Those who receive this support often experience lower stress levels, better mental functioning, and greater life satisfaction. Long-term engagement in the support process can help develop social skills, increase independence, and achieve personal potential.
People with disabilities receive support in various ways.
- Non-governmental organizations:
There are many non-profit organizations specializing in supporting people with disabilities. They offer various services, including counselling, support groups, education, and advocacy for social change. Example: The Jim Foundation.
- Government institutions:
Governments often create social programs, laws, and regulations to provide access to healthcare, education, employment, and social services for people with disabilities. Example: The Ministry of Family, Labor, and Social Policy.
- Educational institutions:
Schools, universities, and other educational institutions are essential in adapting their programs and environments to the needs of people with disabilities, ensuring equal access to education—for example, Support offices for people with disabilities in universities.
- Rehabilitation and therapeutic centres:
Such centres offer physical, psychological, speech therapy, and other forms of therapeutic support to help individuals with disabilities improve their health and functioning. Example: The Foundation for Assistance to Disabled Persons.
- Vocational institutions:
Training programs and recruitment initiatives in vocational institutions can help people with disabilities acquire skills and find employment opportunities—for example, Municipal or Regional Centers.
- Self-help groups:
People with disabilities often form self-help groups to share experiences, exchange advice, and mutually support each other.
In summary, psychosocial support for people with disabilities plays a crucial role in improving their quality of life, mental health, and social integration. People with disabilities often face various emotional, social, and life challenges, such as prejudice, social isolation, or communication difficulties. Psychosocial support helps counteract these difficulties through diverse forms of action. Psychosocial support for people with disabilities is a foundation for building bridges to a more fulfilling life. Promoting mental health, social integration, and personal development creates a more inclusive society where everyone can actively participate. It is essential to understand that psychosocial support is not a one-time action but a process requiring continuous commitment and empathy. Striving to create a more inclusive