Counselling for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD): Integrating Psychosocial Perspective

Abstract

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is one of the most severe forms of muscular dystrophy and is associated with profound mobility and psychosocial disability. This article explores the psychosocial implications for individuals dealing with DMD, highlighting the significant influence that genetic counselors can have in managing different issues, fostering resilience to the emotional burden, enabling social positioning, and assisting families in ethical dilemmas. Further, the review notes the difficulties counselors experience in what can be an emotionally exhausting and ethically challenging role and the requirement for ongoing professional support. By presenting these viewpoints in collaboration, this paper emphasizes how genetic counseling may contribute to both psychiatric, social and quality of life outcomes, for individuals with DMD, and how such support may alleviate the profound psychological stress related to this disease.