what works for you.
If you are still unsure what you should do, your doctor can help you figure out what’s right for you, Dr. Yopp adds.
Talk to Your Doctor About the Risks and Benefits of Going Out
And while you’re talking to your doctor, discussing the risks and benefits of going out can be beneficial.
“I’d urge people who are immunocompromised to have an honest discussion with their doctor, nurse practitioner or nurse navigator about how cautious they need to be,” Dr. Yopp shares. “Find out what they recommend. It may be that your doctor doesn’t think some activities are as risky as you might fear.”
For example, you may not be comfortable in a large crowd but may consider a small group gathering instead.
“Don’t restrict yourself to always thinking ‘I can’t,’” he says. “Find spots where it feels safe enough to take calculated risks.”
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Work with Your Child’s Pediatrician to Balance Physical and Mental Health
Adults aren’t the only ones facing the physical and mental health challenges of being immunocompromised. As a parent of an immunocompromised child, you may find it challenging to allow your child to have fun while also protecting them.
“As hard-wired as we are to protect ourselves, we’re even more protective of our children,” Dr. Yopp says. “It’s worth noting, though, that there is an increasing mental health crisis among children. No doubt, it predates the pandemic, but it’s been magnified over the past two years.”
He notes the importance of spending time with peers in person as opposed to just through social media or a screen because it helps them learn social and emotional skills. What’s more, having someone to talk to and play with helps a child build self-esteem and creativity.
So, as a parent, what do you do?
Sharing your concerns with your child’s doctor can help. He or she might be able to help you find ways to protect your child while still allowing them to be a normal kid.
“A lot of children have suffered from being so isolated,” Dr. Yopp says. “We don’t want to protect our children so much that we cut them off from socialization opportunities. Talk to your child’s doctor to understand how big the risks might be and what you can do to minimize them and still allow your child time with peers.”
As an immunocompromised individual, it can be challenging to grapple with how ease to your way back into the world, but it can successfully be done. Remember to take your time and consider what works best for you and your family.
If you need further assistance and/or are worried about your risk of COVID-19 infection, talk to your doctor about what you can do to stay safe. He or she can help you find the right solution and balance your mental health needs.