by Lori Chodash, APRN, PMHNP-BC, PNP-PC
As children head back to school, parents of children with food allergies and the children
themselves, have concerns about how their food allergy may put them at risk outside of the
classroom. Understandably, dealing with food allergies can be distressing and many people have
anxiety about food allergies when eating outside their home. Sometimes, the efforts to prevent an
allergic reaction and fear of a potential accidental exposure to a food allergen can cause
excessive concern that may lead to self-imposed limitations on daily activities. For example,
children may avoid participation in extracurricular activities, play dates, or birthday parties,
while older children and adults may limit dining at restaurants or traveling. However, with the
right precautions, it is possible to maintain safety without giving up the activities that you enjoy.
Talking with your child about safe practices to deal with food-allergies is the first step in easing
their food allergy-related anxiety. The next step is putting the risks in perspective. Driving in a
car or crossing the street are good examples of common activities that can be dangerous but
managed with proper safety precautions. The more you and your child know about their food
allergy, and the risk of accidental ingestion, the more prepared you can be for situations to avoid
potential exposure and in turn, manage stressors. Most importantly, familiarize yourself and
caregivers with your food allergy action plan.
Families and children themselves (when able) need to advocate for food-safe environments,
which includes reading food labels, avoidance of known food allergens, washing hands prior to
eating, and having medication like Zyrtec and Epinephrine on hand to treat accidental exposure
if necessary. Lastly, preparing oneself for situations involving food exposure, like carrying selfprepared foods whenever possible, discussing with teachers, and calling restaurants prior to
attendance to communicate their allergy needs, can alleviate many stressors related to eating in
environments outside the home.
Educating oneself with credible information and offering evidence-based strategies can
significantly decrease a child’s (and their caregivers) anxiety related to food allergies.
Check out the food allergy resources for more information:
Food Allergy Resources
- Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE)
- https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/allergies/food-allergies-101
- Managing Anxiety: A Handout for Families of Children with Food Allergies:
https://www.massgeneral.org/children/food-allergies/managing-anxiety-a-handout-forfamilies-of-children-with-food-allergies#:~:text=Anxiety%20is%20common%20among%20families,participation%20in%20daycare%20or%20school
Anxiety is a normal part of life and at a basic level, can help keep us safe, however, if feelings of
anxiety interfere with an ability to participate in daily activities, seeking guidance from a trained
professional is recommended. For more guidance, make an appointment to meet with your
allergist and together formulate a plan to address your individual needs. There are even therapists
who specialize in food allergy related anxiety to support individuals and their families, cope with
fears about potential food allergen exposure but in most instances routine visits with your
allergist can allay your concerns.
We are here to help! Call BayWay Allergy to make an appointment to meet with an allergist
today