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Dealing with anxiety
Dealing with anxiety can be a challenge for many people with allergies, especially if you are at risk of anaphylaxis. Some level of anxiety is normal and it is an important part of staying safe.
There may be times when you need additional support. If you think you or your child are worrying more than you should be, then it is a good idea to seek help. This might be learning some skills to help manage anxiety or talking to your GP or a Psychologist. They can help you to understand the risks and the appropriate level of care that you need to take to stay safe.
We have trained health professionals that you can call on our National Allergy Helpline if you would like to talk to someone who understands allergy. Click here for more information.
After every anaphylaxis it is a good idea to speak to someone to talk through what happened and to feel confident that you can manage any future emergencies. After anaphylaxis is a time when anxiety can be at its worst.
Living with the risk
You can lead a close to normal life, even if you are at risk of anaphylaxis. While many people feel alone, overwhelmed or even angry when they are first diagnosed, remember that help and support is available.
Here are some ideas to help you:
- Get up to date information and support by subscribing to Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia. Subscribe now
- Always carry your medication with you.
- Plan ahead.
- Allow extra time when shopping – always read labels and learn about different ingredient names.
- Talk to those around you about your allergy so they can support you.
- Take safe food with you wherever you go or check safe food will be available.
- Keep up to date with product changes and the latest research.
- Ask questions so you understand.
- Check expiry dates on your adrenaline (epinephrine) injector (such as Anapen®, EpiPen®), practise with a trainer device, read through your Action Plan for Anaphylaxis and have an emergency drill from time to time.
- See your allergy specialist every year or two or as advised.
Research about anxiety around eating
Children (and teens and adults) who are at risk of anaphylaxis to food often experience anxiety around eating. The right level of anxiety can be protective, but too much anxiety can be crippling and stop the person engaging in normal social situations, such as eating out with friends and attending birthday parties and family functions. A research article shows that psychological therapy can help manage excessive anxiety. If you feel that you or your child may be experiencing excessive anxiety-type behaviours it can be valuable to get help from a psychologist trained in cognitive behaviour therapy. Consider speaking to your GP for a referral to a psychologist.
This research study talks about a Food Allergy Bravery (FAB) clinic at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia in Pennsylvania—how great would it be to have one of these at each major children’s hospital in Australia?
We love this quote from the author of the study:
‘Our ultimate goal, of course, is for every child with a food allergy to stay safe while living as big a life as they want to’.
This is also what A&AA wants for everyone living with allergy.