Social Pediatrics

Description

Research aim To help children with chronic conditions grow into healthy, resilient adults, preventing long-term sequelae. Of special focus is early identification and intervention of fatigue as disease-transcending symptom with major impact on well-being. About us Children with chronic health conditions face numerous challenges beyond their physical diagnosis, e.g., (late) effects of disease or treatment. They are prone to psychosocial and mental health problems, show delays in autonomy development and are often unable to fully participate in society. Physical and mental health are interrelated and both contribute to their perceived well-being, which extends to the entire family. The primary aims of this research group are: 1\. address these interactions; 2\. to better understand individual differences in health outcomes; 3\. identify the persisting stressors and protective variables related to these outcomes; 4\. increase awareness of what it means to live with a chronic health condition and what the long-term consequences of childhood chronic disease are; 5\. and develop preventions/interventions to optimize the physical and mental health of these children and their families. To this end, three overarching strategies are defined: 1\. expand academic knowledge of the interaction between physical and mental health parameters; 2\. compare parameters between children with chronic conditions and their healthy peers; 3\. develop transdiagnostic and personalized therapeutic (eHealth) interventions or tools. E.g., diagnostic approaches and personalized interventions for early identification and support for disease-related mental health and well-being issues. (Description adapted from working group website: see link above) ​