When a child in the family has a chronic illness, it's easy to forget that the siblings also face significant challenges.
These “invisible heroes” often experience a range of emotional and practical consequences as a result of their sibling’s condition. Let’s take a closer look at how siblings are affected, based on recent research.
Emotional challenges:
Siblings of chronically ill children often report feelings such as:
- Worry and anxiety about their brother’s or sister’s health
- Guilt over being healthy
- Jealousy due to the extra attention the sick child receives
- Loneliness and isolation
A meta-analysis conducted by Vermaes et al. (2012) found that siblings had an increased risk of internalizing problems such as anxiety and depression. This underscores the importance of being attentive to siblings’ mental health.
Vermaes, I. P. R., Van Susante, A. M. J., & Van Bakel, H. J. A. (2012). Psychological functioning of siblings in families of children with chronic health conditions: A meta-analysis. Journal of Pediatric Psychology, 37(2), 166–184.
https://doi.org/10.1093/jpepsy/jsr081
Behavioral challenges:
Research also shows that siblings may experience behavioral changes:
- Withdrawal from social situations
- Increased sense of responsibility and “adult-like” behavior
- Problems with concentration at school
- In some cases, acting out to get attention
In their meta-analysis, Sharpe and Rossiter (2002) found that siblings had a moderate but significant increased risk of negative psychological outcomes compared to their peers.
Sharpe, D., & Rossiter, L. (2002). Siblings of children with a chronic illness: A meta-analysis. Journal of Pediatric Psychology, 27(8), 699–710.
https://doi.org/10.1093/jpepsy/27.8.699
Positive aspects:
It’s important to remember that many siblings also report positive experiences:
- Increased empathy and understanding for others
- Stronger family bonds
- Greater maturity and sense of responsibility
- Pride in being able to help
A study by Fleary and Heffer (2013) found that many siblings developed increased resilience and coping skills as a result of their experiences.
Fleary, S. A., & Heffer, R. W. (2013). Impact of chronic illness on the psychosocial functioning of healthy siblings. Journal of Child and Family Studies, 22(5), 746-760.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-012-9636-9
What can we do?
To support siblings, it’s important that:
- Parents set aside time for one-on-one attention with healthy siblings
- Healthcare professionals include siblings in conversations and information about the illness
- Schools are aware of siblings’ situations and offer support when needed
- Support groups or activities for siblings are made available
By acknowledging and supporting siblings of chronically ill children, we can help these invisible heroes cope with their challenges and grow from their experiences.
In the next post, we will look closer at specific ways to support siblings. Stay tuned!
//Stay strong, and rock on!
//Stig