Health education and self-care promotion strategies for mothers of children with special needs in a rehabilitation center

an experience report

Abstract

Introduction: The continuous care required by children with disabilities significantly impacts family dynamics, largely falling on mothers, who often neglect their own well-being. In this context, health education outreach activities are relevant strategies for promoting maternal self-care. Objective: To describe the experience of health science students in implementing activities focused on the self-care of mothers and caregivers of children with special needs, within the "Take Care of Yourself to Care for Others" project, teaching about the importance of self-care, promoting moments of well-being, and sharing experiences. Experience Report: The experience took place through four meetings at a philanthropic rehabilitation institution located in Belo Horizonte/MG, in which strategies such as active listening, relaxation techniques, health education, and expressive activities were applied, progressively organized based on identified needs. Final considerations: The activities fostered stronger bonds, the exchange of experiences, and a broader understanding of self-care, in addition to contributing to academic training by highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary and humanized approaches in caring for families of children with disabilities.