Kids with Chronic Illness

(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Chronic illnesses are not confined to adults. Sometimes, infants, children or adolescents are handed a diagnosis that affects every part of their lives. Here's what to expect and how you can help your child and yourself.

About 20 million children in the United States have a chronic health problem. Devon has diabetes. She says, “I have to check my blood and take my insulin.”

Kellie knows it’s a lot more than that. As Devon's mom, she’s taken on much of the burden. “I have to keep her organ damage down and keep her as healthy as I can until that cure comes,” Kellie tells Ivanhoe.

Psychologist Erika Brady, Ph.D., says the diagnosis is usually harder on parents than on kids. With time, kids may feel depressed, angry or overwhelmed. That’s where parents can step in.

“As kids get older, there is an adjustment process that needs to happen, and it is important for parents to help facilitate that,” Brady says.

For young kids, play therapy can help. Puppets and art projects can help kids express their feelings. Older kids need a sense of independence. Involving them in discussions such as treatment options can do that.

Jessica was born paralyzed from the waist down. Her mom has simple advice for other parents in similar situations. “Let them be a kid. Take them to the zoo,” says Jessica's mother, Leann.

Brady agrees. She says, “Children with chronic illnesses are just like any other children. They need the same kinds of things from their parents.”

Kellie knows that’s the best way to raise Devon. “She’s just like every single other kid. Just like everyone else. Right, Devon?”

“Yeah.” Yep.”

The most common chronic childhood illness is asthma, affecting about 6 million children in the United States. If you want help handling the issues and the emotional aspects of having a child with a chronic illness, Brady says to ask your pediatrician. He or she will likely be able to refer you to someone for help.

This article was reported by Ivanhoe.com, who offers Medical Alerts by e-mail every day of the week. To subscribe, go to: http://www.ivanhoe.com/newsalert/.

If you would like more information, please contact:

http://www.chp.edu/greystone/mentalhealth
http://www.aacap.org
http://www.counselingcorner.net