Coping with Chronic Food Allergy Anxiety
A study done in 2019 by The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) revealed that 75% of parents of children with food allergies said their child’s food allergy causes them fear and anxiety.
Another 82% indicated that they think about food allergies all of the time.
YES, it can feel *overwhelming* caring for a child with food allergies. We get it, and you are not alone.
The enormous mental and emotional load can make it difficult for you to navigate through each day.
These chronic life stressors and every day challenges can drain your energy and lead to anxiety or depression.
How about trying a few coping strategies that can help you navigate through all the stress and anxiety, and also maybe relax a bit along the way?
Check out some of these tips:
Build a support system with other food allergy parents; try support groups forums and social media groups.
Give yourself mini-breaks from worrying about the food allergy to shore up your emotional reserves.
If your child has a reaction because of something that slipped by you, be kind to yourself.
Set clear boundaries with family and friends.
Consider shifting your focus to the “even ifs” from the “what ifs.”
Talk to a food-allergy-informed therapist if you are continuing to experience a degree of anxiety.
If you're looking for an allergy-informed therapist in your area or state, visit: https://www.foodallergycounselor.com/directory.html for a growing list of therapists ready to help you.
