Mental health difficulties in cerebral palsy: A qualitative study of young people's and parents' perspectives
Prepared by: AACPDM Digest reviewer/ Christa Weigel PT, DPT, PCS
Keywords:
- Cerebral palsy
- Adolescents and young adults
- Mental health
Study Type: Qualitative descriptive study
Summary: This study explored the mental health experiences of adolescents and young adults with cerebral palsy (CP), addressing a gap in research that has traditionally focused on motor and physical functioning despite broader definitions of health that include psychological and social well-being. Researchers conducted 19 semi-structured narrative interviews with two adolescents with CP, seven young adults with CP, and ten parents of children, adolescents, and young adults with CP. Thematic analysis identified four major themes: recognition of early mental health symptoms and triggers, barriers to accessing care, the interaction between mental health and everyday challenges, and the need for holistic, future-oriented support. Researchers also created two composite case studies to illustrate shared experiences and mental health trajectories over time. The analysis incorporated technical and collaborative strategies, including involvement of individuals with lived experience, to strengthen rigor and trustworthiness.
Findings showed that young people with CP experience significant psychological burden that is often overlooked in routine care. Participants described anxiety, depression, social isolation, bullying, pain, fatigue, academic stress, and uncertainty about future independence. Families reported difficulty accessing appropriately adapted mental health services.
The study emphasizes the importance of integrating routine mental health screening into CP care, particularly during major developmental transitions. It also highlights the need to recognize behavioral challenges or emotional changes as potential indicators of mental health concerns rather than solely CP-related limitations. Recommendations include improving accessibility through technology and adaptive supports, investing in specialized training for mental health professionals working with individuals with CP and adopting multidisciplinary, family-centered approaches that integrate rehabilitation, psychology, school supports, and social services to address mental health as a core component of CP management. Overall, the article emphasizes that effective CP care must address psychological well-being alongside physical health to support long-term quality of life and participation.