Our brains take in millions of bits of information every day. As we compartmentalize our thinking, it can have an impact on how we process everyday things. This can make us more susceptible to thinking in ways that aren’t as inclusive as we’d like to be.
Check out these reframed thoughts that can help you and those you care for in the food allergy community think more inclusively.
I understand everything about food allergy reactions because I have experienced or managed them.
Though I have experienced or managed allergic reactions, each person may experience food allergies differently.
Why don’t they just go to an allergist instead of dealing with a pediatrician?
Not everyone understands the significance of having food allergies managed by a board-certified allergist. Sometimes costs or availability are barriers to access. Or they may not know what to do. Maybe we can discuss benefits of working with an allergist.
They are too cautious. My family eats out as long as we ask questions and carry our medications. They limit themselves too much.
It’s ok for people to have different safety tolerances. Just because I feel comfortable eating out doesn’t mean others have to. The goal is for us all to be safe. Their allergies, history of reactions, and other medical issues are things I don’t know about. It’s not fair to judge them.
My child has one allergy, so that is the only thing I am considering at their party because others don’t have to come if it’s too much for them.
Let me consider my child’s feelings about friendships and relationships with others while I plan this party. My child deserves to have his/her/their friends and/or family by their side while celebrating their special day. I want to make this safe for everyone. I should contact parents individually, so everyone is included.
My child is too strict with their kids’ diets. We ate everything back in my day. It’s not fair that they don’t bring them to see me just because I don’t believe in this food allergy stuff.
Even if I don’t fully understand food allergies, the safety of my grandchildren comes first. Spending time with them is more important than trying to be right because times have changed. I can change too.
I'm a medical professional, educator, certified childcare professional etc. and I know about food allergies.
Things change all the time. The way people managed food allergies 10 years ago is not the same now. Treatment methods change. I should rely on information from the person’s emergency plan to help me stay informed about how to deal with them while in my care. Even though I am in ‘xyz’ profession, I don’t specialize in food allergy, so I’m open to learning.
