Benefits and challenges of a Patient & Public Involvement (PPI) peer researcher.

Developmental disorders (DDs) include conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disability (ID), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and learning disorders [, ]. DDs can adversely affect a child’s physical, cognitive, and emotional development, leading to limitations in daily functioning and overall well-being [, ]. Approximately 95% of children with DDs reside in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) []; these challenges are exacerbated by limited access to specialized services, particularly outside urban centers [], placing caregivers in a critical role in supporting their children’s needs. Although all DDs are considered to be in the same category, the challenges faced by caregivers vary substantially across specific diagnostic subtypes. The behavioral disruptions associated with ADHD and ASD can cause acute distress to caregivers, while intellectual and language disabilities can lead to a long-term caregiving burden due to the individuals ongoing dependence. Even within the same diagnostic category of ASD, caregivers needs and challenges may vary dynamically based on the child’s age, verbal abilities, cognitive profile and additional behavioral issues []. In the Ethiopian context, people with mental disorders and their caregivers, including those caring for children with DDs, face societal stigma and social ostracism within their communities. Moreover, limited awareness and misconceptions about DDs, often attributed to supernatural causes or poor parenting, may intensify blame and isolation [–]. As a result, caregivers are at increased risk of compromised QoL and overall well-being [–].