Article By: Dee Jones, President of Light 2 World, Inc.
When Is Residential Care the Right Step?
Do you ever feel that your best efforts are not enough? Parents often feel this way—especially when raising children with emotional or medical disabilities.
We have lived with this reality for over 40 years, raising several children with a variety of challenges. Now we face the difficult decision of considering residential care for our child. This is never an easy choice at any age. So where does one begin?
Your pediatrician, psychologist, or teacher can be valuable resources as you start the conversation.
Signs Your Child May Need Residential Care
- Not improving on current medications or therapies, with worsening behaviors
- Poses a danger to self and/or others
- Engages in self-harm or self-destructive behaviors
- Displays violent or aggressive behaviors
- Shows signs of substance use
- Expresses suicidal thoughts or behaviors
- Struggles with eating disorders
- Runs away
- Declines academically, emotionally, or psychologically
What Residential Care Provides
Residential facilities offer structure, safety, and protection for children who are not safe at home or in traditional settings. Programs may last several months — or longer — depending on the severity of the diagnosis.
Treatment typically includes:
- Individual therapy
- Family involvement
- A coordinated medical team
- Age-appropriate academic instruction
The goal is always stabilization and, when possible, a safe return home.
You Don’t Have to Face This Alone
If you are considering residential care, seek support. This can be a long journey, but help is available.
Your faith community can provide prayer, encouragement, and shared experience. Some churches offer support groups or resource networks. At our church, we strengthen one another through prayer and by sharing information.
Two important reminders:
- Seek professional consultation
- Do thorough research
Reliable information can be found through your child’s school, medical providers, or reputable organizations such as Kennedy Krieger Institute or Maryland.gov.
Ask facilities about national accreditation through organizations such as:
- Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)
- Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO)
Visit the facility if possible, and speak with other families. Be aware that some programs may have waiting lists or offer Intensive Outpatient Programs.
Do your homework as you seek the best care for your child. There is hope—and there is help.
Resources:
Read more articles from VOM Magazine here: www.veteransoutreachministries.org/vom-magazine
