THE FOOD ALLERGY COUNSELOR - Your Allergy Psychosocial Resource Hub
  • Home
  • Counselor Directory
  • Blog
  • Webinars
  • Podcast
  • Worksheets/Forms
  • Psychosocial Resources
  • FAC Members/FABHN
  • Allergy Counseling Niche Info
    • Allergy Counseling Info for Patients
    • Allergy Counseling Info for Therapy Providers
    • Allergy Counseling Info for Allergists
  • Consulting Services
  • About
    • The Food Allergy Counselor, Inc.
    • Founder, Tamara Hubbard, LCPC
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms & Conditions of Use
  • Contact

2021 FAAW Tips from the Food Allergy Counselor

5/15/2021

21 Comments

 
Food Allergy Awareness Week (FAAW) 2021 may be over, but the education and advocacy efforts won't stop! Together, we will continue to educate the general public and work to make a difference in the lives of those managing food allergies and allergic conditions.

As part of this community, here is my ongoing commitment to this effort:
  • I will continue to think outside of the box to offer new allergy-related psychosocial guidance and tips; 
  • I will continue to create practical resources beneficial for those managing allergies and for allergy clinics to share with their patients; 
  • I will continue to actively be involved in efforts to emphasize the need for multidisciplinary allergy care; 
  • I will continue to educate licensed behavioral healthcare providers about food allergies and the support needs of the food allergy community;
  • I will continue to help grow the food allergy counseling niche in order to increase the number of allergy-informed licensed behavioral healthcare providers available to support this community

I commit to continuing to be a change maker regarding food allergy mental health - having the conversations, building the relationships, identifying the gaps and then helping to fill them!
In the meantime, if you've missed any of the 2021 FAAW tips offered this week, you can review them all below, including the additional guidance offered for each one. 
DAY 1 - Sunday, May 9th, 2021: 
Picture
​In honor of all of you amazing allergy moms, and the first day of Food Allergy Awareness Week (FAAW), here are the results from the 1st question on the "2020 Food Allergy Mom Experience Survey". What do you think of these results? Why do you think 57% of moms surveyed felt allergy moms don't speak up about their experiences enough? (Full anonymous survey answers will be shared in an upcoming blog post). 
​
Check out Exploring Food Allergy Families podcast episode 15 for full results from the moms' survey. Find it on the Podcast page or on any podcast app - Apple Podcast, Spotify, iHeartRadio, etc

DAY 2 - Monday, May 10th, 2021: 
Picture
Today's FAAW tip is focused on reframing anxious allergy thoughts. Let's start with some helpful reminders about anxiety:
  • Anxiety is a useful emotion that helps us assess for safety, and prepares and motivates us towards action
  • Just because we feel physical sensations of anxiety or experience anxious thoughts, doesn't mean things are bad or will go wrong
  • It may not be realistic (or useful) to aim to completely get rid of anxiety; it's more realistic to learn how to manage it or create a new relationship with it

One helpful strategy for managing anxious allergy thoughts is to reframe them. To help your mind develop more workable responses to them. Even the tiniest of mindset shifts can result in unhooking from the worry enough so you can focus on ways to move forward rather than stay stuck.

You can find the following worksheets (and more) to help manage allergy anxiety and worry in the "Worksheets" section:
  • Managing Food Allergy Worries & What Ifs Worksheet
  • Food Allergy Thinking Traps Worksheet
  • Food Allergy Mindset Matters Worksheet
  • Oral Food Challenge anxiety-specific worksheets 
    ​
COMMUNITY QUESTION: What helps you or your child manage their allergy-related anxiety or worry?

DAY 3 - Tuesday, May 11th, 2021: 
Picture
Today's FAAW tip is all about the urge to control when we feel overwhelmed, anxious or fearful of allergies. This is usually triggered by the unpredictability and uncertainty that comes along with food allergy life.

Wouldn't it be ideal if we could always control every risk possible? Unfortunately, that's not a realistic goal, nor is it actually helpful! While trying to control things may decrease the discomfort you feel from the worry, it's a temporary relief which usually leads to increased and growing anxiety over time. More and more energy goes into trying to stay ahead of everything, and when that gets too hard, avoiding people, places and things will start happening. Trying to control also robs you of opportunities to learn and grow - to focus on figuring out what you need to confidently get through tough situations (or thoughts/feelings).

Rather than AIMING TO CONTROL, think about HAVING INFLUENCE OR IMPACT on situations, especially daunting ones.

COMMUNITY CHALLENGE: The image below is just an example to help you process your own list for yourself, or if you're a parent, for your child. Grab a sheet of paper, draw the image below, and have fun exploring just how much impact you have on your ability to decrease anxiety and increase confidence!

COMMUNITY INPUT: What else would you add to this list, in either section?

FAAW BONUS - New "Urge to Control" worksheet, which can be found in the Worksheets section on this website:
Picture

DAY 4 - Wednesday, May 12th, 2021: 
Picture
Wednesday's FAAW tip focuses on your food allergy mindset, because it matters!

Ask yourself these questions to help assess your allergy mindset:
  • Do you think you/your child's life can't be normal?
  • How do you feel about managing a reaction?
  • How does your child feel about managing their food allergy?

These questions relate to your mindset, or whether you believe the qualities you possess make you capable of handling situations. People can have a "fixed" or "growth" mindset. Think of these as the type of glasses you're wearing - the lenses with which you see things. When wearing "fixed mindset" glasses, you're more likely to believe that you're not able to deal with whatever you're being faced with. With "growth mindset" glasses on, you're better able to envision yourself getting through roadblocks that are standing in your way.

Our mindset may change depending on situations we're in or experiences we've previously had. You may feel confident navigating some parts of life with food allergies, while feeling incapable of managing the aspects that you're most fearful of. But by subscribing to a growth mindset, you're allowing yourself the ability to grow confidence, manage anxiety, and essentially handle even the hardest of situations.

Community Challenge: Pick one allergy-related thought to try and reframe into a growth mindset-focused thought. If you're a parent, help your child use growth-mindset language - "I'm not comfortable with this, YET!" or "I'm still learning by practicing with my epi!"

To help practice this concept, you can download the "FA Mindset Matters" worksheet from the Worksheets section. To read more about growth mindset, look up Carol Dweck and her books.

DAY 5 - Thursday, May 13th, 2021: 
Picture
Thursday's FAAW tip offers a problem-solving method that's helpful for when the fear and anxiety feel overwhelming.

When you need to make a decision but your emotions are taking over, having a problem-solving tool to help navigate the scenario can be beneficial. That's where the I.D.E.A.L. Method comes in! This technique helps define the main problem in a situation, and guides you through creating and evaluating solutions. Essentially, it helps you look at things more objectively.

Benefits of the I.D.E.A.L. Method:
  • It's an easy-to-use tool that you can use yourself, teach to your child/teen, or even use as a family when there's a decision needing to be made
  • It aids in balancing the emotions and the facts - essentially helping you become "unstuck"
  • By using this tool, it helps decrease the power of the fearful emotions, and increase the focus on where you DO have control or impact in a situation
.
Community Challenge: Choose something you feel stuck navigating lately and use the I.D.E.A.L Method steps to help you feel less stuck and better able to consider potential solutions.

The "I.D.E.A.L. Method " worksheet can be downloaded from the Worksheets section.

DAY 6 - Friday, May 14th, 2021: 
Picture
Friday's FAAW tip has to do with processing the emotions associated with yours or your child's food allergy diagnosis. Avoiding allergens is helpful, but avoiding emotions isn't!

Of course you can recall the feelings you felt the day you learned about the food allergy, but have you connected with the stories that came out of it? When we experience something as emotional as a life-changing diagnosis, there's often a narrative that our mind attaches to - sometimes so quickly that we don't even notice it. It just sort of sneaks in and we don't take time to acknowledge it, let alone process it.

In the case of food allergies, we immediately jump into action - doing, learning, avoiding, protecting. We may process the surface thoughts and feelings, but the deeper emotions and stories likely stay put because there's no time or energy for that work. But what happens when we don't make the time to process them? They find ways to come back up, especially when we feel vulnerable, such as after another reaction or during a life transition that leads to increased emotions again. And those stories we told ourselves about the early experiences with food allergies have the ability to impact our allergy mindset - changing how we manage it all in the future.

Yes, it's uncomfortable to revisit that time in our minds, but it can help unhook you from unhelpful narratives that may keep you from moving forward in the way you want to on this allergy journey, especially if those narratives are focused on blame, guilt, and self-judgement. This image shows some of the emotions and diagnosis narratives that may be experienced. This isn't an exhaustive list, so use it as a starting point to help you identify your own. Use self-compassion and kindness with yourself as you process these, just as you'd offer a friend. Notice if you're still holding onto anything internally that's keeping you stuck, pushing you around or derailing you from being the allergic person or parent you want to be.

If you feel you need the support of processing this with a licensed therapist, you can find an allergy-informed one via the Food Allergy Counselor Directory.

DAY 7 - Saturday, May 15th, 2021: 
Picture
​Saturday's FAAW tip offers a post-reaction compass to help rebuild confidence and decrease anxiety after anaphylaxis through the T.R.A.C.E. approach.

It's very common to feel like a reaction, anaphylactic or not, has set you back emotionally and decreased willingness to live fully due to fear of another reaction. This is a normal response to a traumatic situation, so allowing yourself to honor those thoughts and feelings is a part of the healing process. But once the initial overwhelm from the reaction settles a bit, it's important to create your game plan to build your confidence again. Without this step, you risk staying stuck, hooked by fear and catastrophizing thoughts that keep you unable to truly move forward in a way that benefits yourself and/or your child.

T.R.A.C.E. is an easy way to remember the key components of this rebuilding process. It takes time to rebuild trust, getting back to a routine, reviewing with your allergist, practicing tons of compassion, and educating yourself on anxiety and to fill the knowledge gaps.

Community Conversation - what has helped you and/or your child move forward after a reaction?


You can find a free downloadable worksheet version of T.R.A.C.E. in the Worksheets section.

I hope you were able to share or learn new things this Food Allergy Awareness Week. I'd love to hear from you - what were some of the best tips
​you learned or share this week? 
Picture
21 Comments
marry link
10/20/2021 02:16:36 am

Thanks a lot very much for the high quality and results-oriented help. I won’t think twice to endorse your blog post to anybody who wants and needs support about this area. You truly did more than visitors’ expectations. Thank you for rendering these helpful, trusted, edifying and also cool thoughts on the topic.

Reply
Real Estate Lawyer in Cambridge link
1/12/2023 10:52:48 am

Finding Best Real Estate Lawyer in Cambridge or Ontario? We can handle all of real estate needs whether you are buying or selling a home.

Reply
Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Ontario link
3/14/2023 02:10:51 pm

Understand the importance of hiring a motor vehicle accident lawyer in Ontario to handle your case and ensure that you receive the compensation you des.

Best Immigration Lawyers in Kitchener link
3/16/2023 12:02:26 pm

VSR Law Office is a top-rated immigration law firm in Canada, offering expert legal services for individuals and businesses. Contact us for a consultation.

Psychological Injury Lawyer in Ontario link
3/21/2023 01:21:11 pm

Finding Chronic Pain & Psychological Injury Lawyer in Ontario? To discuss a chronic pain claim for compensation in Canada, Call VSR Law Today.

Catastrophic Injury Lawyer in Cambridge link
3/22/2023 02:15:35 pm

Our team of catastrophic injury lawyers is here to fight for those who have suffered a catastrophic injury in Brampton, Cambridge, Kitchener, and throughout Ontario.

Debt Consolidation Lawyer in Ontario link
1/16/2023 09:26:27 am

Finding Debt Consolidation Lawyer in Ontario? So At VSR Law office, we offer several solutions to help you reach your goals.

Reply
Car Accident Lawyer in Cambridge link
1/19/2023 10:29:31 am

Finding Car Accident Lawyer in Cambridge? So VSR Law can assist you in recovering damages and ensure that your Motor Vehicle Accident claim is as strong as possible.

Reply
Bankruptcy Lawyer in Kitchener link
1/21/2023 09:11:01 am

Finding Bankruptcy Lawyer in Kitchener? So At VSR Law office, we offer several solutions to help you reach your goals.

Reply
Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Kitchener link
2/8/2023 10:30:25 am

Our pedestrian accident lawyers in Cambridge, Kitchener, Brampton would help you understand the scenarios in pedestrian accidents and various issues.

Reply
Real Estate Lawyer in Kitchener link
2/9/2023 11:39:09 am

Find the best real estate lawyers in Cambridge, Kitchener, Brampton & Ontario for expert legal representation during your home buying/selling process.

Reply
Real Estate Lawyers Kitchener link
2/23/2023 02:56:02 pm

Find the best real estate lawyers in Cambridge, Kitchener, Brampton & Ontario for expert legal representation during your home buying/selling process.

Reply
Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Cambridge link
2/27/2023 10:34:33 am

Our pedestrian accident lawyers in Cambridge, Kitchener, Brampton would help you understand the scenarios in pedestrian accidents and various issues.

Reply
Debt Consolidation Lawyer in Ontario link
2/28/2023 12:42:19 pm

Finding Debt Consolidation Lawyer in Ontario? So At VSR Law office, we offer several solutions to help you reach your goals.

Reply
Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyer in Ontario link
3/6/2023 01:12:50 pm

Understand the importance of hiring a motor vehicle accident lawyer in Ontario to handle your case and ensure that you receive the compensation you des.

Reply
Real Estate Lawyer in Brampton link
3/10/2023 10:24:52 am

Find the best real estate lawyers in Brampton, Cambridge, Kitchener & Ontario for expert legal representation during your home buying/selling process.

Reply
Allergy-Free Snacks For Kids & Toddlers link
10/20/2021 02:17:56 am

Thanks for one marvelous posting! I enjoyed reading it; you are a great author.I will make sure to bookmark your blog and may come back someday.

Reply
Debt Consolidation lawyer in Ontario link
4/28/2022 08:49:04 am

Excellent web site you have here.. It’s hard to find good quality writing like yours these days. I truly appreciate individuals like you!

Reply
Debt Consolidation lawyer in Ontario link
4/28/2022 02:13:19 pm

Finding Debt Consolidation Lawyer in Canada? So At VSR Law office, we offer several solutions to help you reach your goals.

Reply
Real Estate Lawyer Kitchener link
1/24/2023 02:23:54 pm

Finding Best Real Estate Lawyer in Kitchener or Ontario? We can handle all of real estate needs whether you are buying or selling a home.

Reply
Bankruptcy Lawyer in Kitchener link
1/27/2023 09:05:44 am

Finding Bankruptcy Lawyer in Kitchener? So At VSR Law office, we offer several solutions to help you reach your goals.

Reply



Leave a Reply.


    Follow FAC on Twitter or Instagram, or on Facebook on the Food Allergy Counselor Directory  page to get updates on the FAC Directory, blog or resources. And connect with FAC creator Tamara on Twitter or Instagram!

    Picture
    Subscribe here to receive weekly allergy life tips and/or insights into the allergy counseling niche

    Picture
    Listen to & subscribe to the Exploring Food Allergy Families podcast!

    Archives

    February 2023
    January 2023
    December 2022
    November 2022
    October 2022
    August 2022
    July 2022
    June 2022
    May 2022
    April 2022
    March 2022
    July 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    February 2021
    July 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    July 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    December 2018
    November 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018


    Categories

    All
    4 Things Series
    ACT Skills
    Adult Allergies
    Advocacy
    Allergy Anxiety Tools
    Allergy Dads
    Allergy Education
    Allergy Informed Therapists
    Allergy Moms
    Allergy Tools
    Anaphylaxis
    Anxiety
    Building Confidence
    CBT
    Community
    Compassion & Self Compassion
    Coping
    Coronavirus Anxiety
    Counseling
    Emotions
    Empowerment
    FAAW
    Family
    Fears
    Food Allergy Management
    Food Allergy Research
    Food Allergy Worksheets
    Guest Bloggers
    Guilt
    Kids
    Mindfulness
    Mindset
    OIT & OFC
    Parenting
    Personal Stories
    Podcast
    Podcast & Webinars
    Relationships
    Resilience
    Siblings
    Stress Management
    Support Groups
    Survey Results
    Teen Allergies
    Treatment
    Updates Or News


    Picture
    Don't miss a blog post! Subscribe below: 

    Enter your email address:

    Delivered by FeedBurner

    Subscribe to FAC via reader

FAC Resources

FAC Directory
FAC Blog
​
FA Webinars & Discussions
Exploring FA Families Podcast
​Therapy Worksheets
​​Sign up for FAC emails!

For THERAPY Providers

FAC Membership & FABHN​
Allergy Psychosocial Intake Forms
Contact The FAC
ALLERGY COUNSELING 
Patient/Community Info
Therapy Provider Info
Allergists/Healthcare Info

About

The FAC, Inc.
FAC Founder
Consulting & Webinars
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
Copyright © 2018-2023 The Food Allergy Counselor, Inc. All Rights Reserved
Photo used under Creative Commons from rawpixel.com
  • Home
  • Counselor Directory
  • Blog
  • Webinars
  • Podcast
  • Worksheets/Forms
  • Psychosocial Resources
  • FAC Members/FABHN
  • Allergy Counseling Niche Info
    • Allergy Counseling Info for Patients
    • Allergy Counseling Info for Therapy Providers
    • Allergy Counseling Info for Allergists
  • Consulting Services
  • About
    • The Food Allergy Counselor, Inc.
    • Founder, Tamara Hubbard, LCPC
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms & Conditions of Use
  • Contact