Associate Professor of Psychology at St Mary’s University and HCPC-registered clinical Psychologist
An important area of my work with patients is research focused on health-related quality of life (HRQoL), a multi-dimensional concept that covers three primary domains: physical, psychological, and social functioning as they relate to health conditions. HRQoL is particularly relevant for those living with strabismus, as it highlights the impact of the condition not only on physical well-being but also on mental and social health.
I am very pleased to endorse the goals of this website. Having previously collaborated with Lucia on the book Face to Face with Strabismus, which shares the personal experiences of those living with this condition, I am convinced that strabismus patients deserve comprehensive support that goes beyond medical treatment alone. Psycho-social support is essential to help individuals manage the emotional and social aspects of living with a visible condition like strabismus.
I am delighted to contribute to this website, which will offer resources and guidance specifically tailored to adult strabismus patients, and I am pleased that the psychological challenges faced by children and their parents will also be addressed. Strabismus can profoundly affect mental and emotional well-being, and addressing these dimensions is crucial to providing holistic care.
Psychological Challenges Faced by Patients with Strabismus
The visible nature of strabismus means that many patients face unique psychological challenges, impacting self-esteem, mental health, and overall quality of life. Here are some of the key psychological issues experienced by those with strabismus, along with potential strategies to support them:
When focusing on children with strabismus, it is crucial to understand the specific psychological and emotional challenges they face, as these can significantly influence their development and quality of life. Here’s an outline of these challenges, along with the psychological impacts on these patients:
- Self-Esteem and Body Image: Children and adults with strabismus may become acutely self-conscious due to their appearance, leading to low self-esteem and a negative body image. This can be particularly challenging in school or social settings, where they may feel judged by peers. Over time, this can impact their confidence and willingness to engage in social activities, potentially limiting their development.
- Social Anxiety: The fear of negative reactions or being misunderstood often leads to social anxiety in children and adults with strabismus. They may shy away from group activities, sports, or social gatherings, fearing scrutiny or teasing. This avoidance behaviour can result in social isolation, which may contribute to loneliness and hinder social skills development.
- Emotional Distress: Living with a visible condition can place a long-term psychological burden on children, sometimes leading to depression and emotional exhaustion. They may feel as though their condition defines them, especially if they are excluded from activities or treated differently by others. This can lead to frustration and a sense of loss, especially if their condition prevents them from participating fully in activities they enjoy.
- Fear of Stigma: Many patients with strabismus worry about being misjudged or seen as different, which can lead to stress and feelings of marginalisation. Misunderstandings and stereotypes about visible conditions may make children and adults feel isolated or less capable, impacting their self-worth and aspirations for the future.
- Psychological Impact on Parents and Caregivers: Parents of children with strabismus often experience their own psychological stress. Feelings of guilt, concerns about their child’s future, and frustration over societal misunderstandings can weigh heavily on them. These emotions can strain family dynamics and impact how parents support their child, underscoring the need for family-focused support and education.
To fully support patients with strabismus and their families, a comprehensive approach combining medical and psycho-social care is essential. Here are some examples on how to address these psychological impacts effectively:
- Engaging in psychological counselling, can help individuals manage social anxiety, build self-esteem, and develop healthier self-perceptions.
- Support groups, whether in person or online, create a sense of community where patients can share experiences and find validation from others who understand the same challenges.
- Family counselling and support resources for parents of children with strabismus are essential.
- Promoting awareness and advocating for greater understanding of strabismus in society can help reduce stigma and foster inclusivity. Awareness campaigns and educational materials can combat stereotypes and create a more supportive environment.
In the meantime, if you or someone close to you is struggling with the psychological impact of strabismus, I strongly encourage you to seek support from your GP as a first step. This collaborative approach can lead to referrals for psychological and emotional support, helping you take those crucial steps toward a better quality of life.
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Dr Silvia Riva is an Associate Professor of Psychology at St. Mary’s University and an HCPC-registered clinical psychologist. Previously, she was a Marie Curie Research Fellow at the University of Wolverhampton, focusing on decision making, personality, and stress. With a background in clinical psychology from the Catholic University of Sacred Heart in Milan, Silvia’s research primarily explores decision-making under conditions of stress, risk, and uncertainty, particularly in healthcare contexts.
Silvia’s work includes developing interventions to promote a healthier environment and enhance health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Her clinical practice is rooted in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT). As the Biopsychosocial Health & Wellbeing Cluster Lead at the Centre for Applied Social and Health Sciences, she also leads projects on health outcomes and disease burden.
Among her recent projects is the Strabismus Support Project, which focuses on developing awareness and knowledge to address the condition’s psychological, social, and emotional impact. By enhancing awareness, the project aims to reduce stigma and improve the quality of life for those affected.