The Impact of Stress on Child Development and Healthcare Interventions for Children with Chronic Illnesses in Albania
Authors: HOXHAJ Brunilda , KARAGJOZI Dora 
Published: October 2024

This study is of paramount importance for advancing healthcare and improving the quality of life for children with chronic diseases in Albania. Chronic illnesses in children present significant challenges that extend beyond the physical aspects of the disease. These conditions often require continuous medical management and can have substantial emotional and psychological impacts. In Albania, it is estimated that approximately 15-20% of children are affected by chronic illnesses. Among these children, about 30-40% experience high levels of stress, which can significantly impact their overall health and well-being. Understanding the relationship between stress and chronic illnesses is crucial for developing effective healthcare strategies. Stress can exacerbate the symptoms of chronic diseases and contribute to a deterioration in the child’s condition. This study aims to explore the intricate relationship between stress and health interventions, analyzing how stress impacts the health and well-being of children with chronic illnesses. It investigates whether increased stress levels are associated with worsening of the child’s condition and evaluates the effectiveness of various health interventions in mitigating this stress. The methodology of the study includes using surveys to measure stress levels among children and medical monitoring to identify changes in their health status in relation to stress. The hypotheses guiding this research suggest that elevated stress levels may significantly increase symptoms and the risk of worsening chronic conditions. By examining these relationships, the study seeks to confirm the importance of stress management in the healthcare and treatment of children with chronic illnesses. The findings reveal a noticeable link between stress levels and the worsening of chronic illnesses, underscoring the critical need for effective stress management strategies. The results suggest that psychosocial interventions and family support are essential components in reducing stress and improving the quality of life for these children. Practical implications of the study include the development and implementation of targeted interventions designed to address the specific stressors faced by children with chronic conditions, potentially enhancing their overall care and support. However, the study does have limitations. Measuring stress and accounting for other variables that may affect health can be challenging, and these factors may impact the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the findings. Despite these limitations, the study’s insights have significant social implications. A deeper understanding of how stress affects health can contribute to the development of more effective policies and practices, fostering better healthcare environments for children with chronic illnesses. Overall, this study provides valuable new perspectives on the impact of stress on children with chronic conditions and highlights the necessity of effective interventions. By addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of chronic illness management, the study aims to improve the overall quality of life for affected children, reduce healthcare costs, and support their emotional and social well-being. Keywords: Stress, chronic illnesses, children, health interventions, quality of life, healthcare implications