5 Tips for Kids with Atopic Eczema

A look at five tips for children who are diagnosed with atopic eczema.

You are NOT your ailment

You have atopic dermatitis, atopic dermatitis does not have you! Your condition is one part of who you are, it does not define you as a whole person. Atopic dermatitis is a part of your story, but it is certainly not the whole book. Use your condition as a stepping stone and a motivation to be your best you in spite of the flare-ups and the pain and irritation it may cause you at times. Flare-ups do not change the person that you are within. You have talents, skills, and gifts that make you who you are. Notice those and recognize that they outweigh the hard times you will experience with your condition.

Beauty is more than skin deep

You are beautiful and/ or handsome, unique, and special. Atopic dermatitis does not, in any way, detract from your beauty neither externally nor internally. You are a beautiful or handsome person from the outside in because of who you are and the light within you, flare-ups and irritation do not dull your shine nor alter your beauty.

Who you are is defined by YOU

People can sometimes be unkind and inconsiderate. People who do not understand your condition may say harsh things or make inaccurate assumptions. People may offer incorrect opinions or suggestions. You cannot control what people say, but you can control how you feel about who you are and your condition. You can control your reactions and responses on the inside and out. Be proud of you!

Be your own champion

You know your own skin and health needs better than anyone else. Be your own advocate and supporter! Take care of your body and skin. Stay away from anything that you know causes flare-ups. Do what is best for you and require others to do the same. Sometimes the healthier choices or better choices for you are harder or more time consuming to make, make them anyway. Sometimes you may want to take the easy or quick way out, you may want to skip a part of your daily routine or eat something that you know may be a trigger for your atopic dermatitis, but do not do it! It is your skin and body that will either suffer the uncomfortable, irritated consequences or appreciate the wise choice you made later.

Don't be afraid to ask for help

Sometimes having atopic dermatitis gets hard. Sometimes it may be hard on your skin, sometimes it may be hard on your internally, but always know you are not alone, people all across the country share in your daily struggles. Additionally, your parent, guardian or supporter is there to help you; do not be afraid to ask for help! If you are unsure about a product or procedure, ask your advocate or supporter! Also, know that your doctor or pediatrician is there to help you as well. Go to your doctor for any questions you and your advocate cannot answer.

Always do what's best for you!