Holding It Together

Why Parenting a Child With Hidden Needs Feels Like Combat and What Helps

“Parents are struggling, and this is exactly the book they need. We will be recommending it.” - Dr P. Zeltzer MD, Consultant Paediatrician, UCLA, California

“I was hooked from the start! It made me feel validated, heard, and most definitely not alone. The techniques and insights have been extremely helpful.” - Kathryn, parent

If we are caring for a child with hidden needs, we may be at breaking point. While loving and trying to support our child as best we can, we may feel exhausted by the constant fight to get help. We are likely to be overwhelmed by the judgement and criticism of others, and frustrated by how few people truly listen. Alongside this, our child’s behaviour may be pushing us over the edge.

It may come as no surprise that research shows parents of children with hidden disabilities have the same level of stress hormones as combat soldiers - meaning that, in effect, we are experiencing combat stress. 

While a soldier’s combat stress can be treated after the battle has ended, ours does not end. It is ongoing and unpredictable.

This book offers hope and practical ideas on how, despite the challenges, we can emerge stronger, calmer, and better able to understand ourselves and others - especially our children. It also includes detailed guidance on how to advocate for our child’s needs effectively.