Introduction: Autistic spectrum disorder is a complex developmental neurological disorder that affects all aspects of a child's development. This is reflected in the child's behaviour, problem solving, self-care, and more challenging social-communicating, language and executive skills. The disorder is more common in men, as they are four times more likely to develop it than women. It is estimated that around 1 in 100 children worldwide have autism spectrum disorder. Purpose: With this thesis, we want to investigate the mental health challenges faced by parents of children with autism spectrum disorder, which factors can be associated with an increased risk of developing these problems and which nursing activities can help to manage them. Methods: The descriptive method of work was used in the thesis. The analysis of professional and scientific literature from domestic and foreign sources was carried out, using databases PubMed (Medline), Cinehl Ultimate (EBSCO) and Google Scholar. The literature review took place between October 2024 and February 2025. Results: A diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder in a child strongly affects family dynamics, increases stress, can cause marital conflict and contributes to the development of mental health problems in parents. They often experience feelings of anxiety, denial, confusion and emotional overload. Important factors that contribute to the development of psychopathology in parents are the burden of care, especially for single parents or primary carers, unemployment, long-term care of the child, lack of social support, the severity of symptoms of autism spectrum disorder, and social stigma. Nurses play a key role in providing support to parents of children with autism spectrum disorder, as they are in close contact with families and can help them cope with mental health challenges. Discussion and conclusion: Parents of children with autism spectrum disorder can develop different strategies for coping with stress over time on their own. With the findings of this thesis, nurses can help parents of children with autistic spectrum disorder who do not know how to cope with mental health problems by implementing appropriate nursing activities.
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