Quality of life and mental health in caregivers of children with down syndrome and sleep problems
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First published online 01 June 2025.
Why this study was done
Children with Down syndrome often have sleep problems. These sleep issues can affect not only the child but also their caregivers. However, little was known about how sleep problems in children with Down syndrome affect caregivers’ mental health and quality of life.
What the study did
Twenty-six caregivers of children with Down syndrome and diagnosed sleep problems filled out two questionnaires about their wellbeing — one measuring quality of life (WHOQOL-BREF) and another measuring depression, anxiety, and stress (DASS-42). Their results were compared to average scores in the general population.
What the study found
Caregivers had a lower quality of life and higher stress than the general population. Poor physical and mental health were linked to more symptoms of depression, and lower physical and social wellbeing were linked to higher stress levels.
What this means
Caring for a child with Down syndrome and sleep problems can have a big impact on caregivers’ health and wellbeing. Supporting both child sleep and caregiver mental health together may help improve life for the whole family.
This study was conducted by:
Ms Kasey Fullwood, Dr Andrew Collaro, Mr Lachlan Power & Dr. Jasneek Chawla
For other accessible formats, please see the column to the right.
Disclaimer: The QDRN has utilised generative AI to refine the wording of this plain language summary. All content has been checked for accuracy, appropriate tone and clarity and approved by the author.
First published online 01 June 2025.
Why this study was done
Children with Down syndrome often have sleep problems. These sleep issues can affect not only the child but also their caregivers. However, little was known about how sleep problems in children with Down syndrome affect caregivers’ mental health and quality of life.
What the study did
Twenty-six caregivers of children with Down syndrome and diagnosed sleep problems filled out two questionnaires about their wellbeing — one measuring quality of life (WHOQOL-BREF) and another measuring depression, anxiety, and stress (DASS-42). Their results were compared to average scores in the general population.
What the study found
Caregivers had a lower quality of life and higher stress than the general population. Poor physical and mental health were linked to more symptoms of depression, and lower physical and social wellbeing were linked to higher stress levels.
What this means
Caring for a child with Down syndrome and sleep problems can have a big impact on caregivers’ health and wellbeing. Supporting both child sleep and caregiver mental health together may help improve life for the whole family.
This study was conducted by:
Ms Kasey Fullwood, Dr Andrew Collaro, Mr Lachlan Power & Dr. Jasneek Chawla
For other accessible formats, please see the column to the right.
Disclaimer: The QDRN has utilised generative AI to refine the wording of this plain language summary. All content has been checked for accuracy, appropriate tone and clarity and approved by the author.
