Parents in focus: The often overlooked burden of atopic dermatitis in children

Dear parents and relatives,

If your child suffers from atopic dermatitis, the focus is usually on their needs and treatment. But what about you, the parents? Today we would like to focus on your situation and talk about how you can deal with the challenges and take care of yourself.

The hidden burden on parents

Our recent study at Grahams Natural Alternatives has revealed some worrying findings:

• 7 out of 10 people (70%) with skin diseases feel uncomfortable because of their skin conditions.
• In children with skin diseases, 52% of parents report that their child is ashamed of their skin disease.
• Parents of young children are particularly affected: 70% of parents of children under 5 years of age report emotional struggles of their children with the disease, compared to 56% of 5-15 year olds.

These figures clearly show that neurodermatitis not only affects your child's skin, but has a profound impact on the emotional well-being of the whole family. The burden is particularly high in families with younger children, which underlines the need for holistic support. The burden on parents caused by their child's neurodermatitis is multifaceted:

1. Feeling of helplessness: Many parents feel powerless when they see their child suffering from symptoms and are unable to provide immediate relief.
2. Emotional compassion: Watching your own child suffer can be very emotionally stressful for parents.
3. Frustration with limited options for help: Despite all efforts, parents often cannot achieve the complete cure or lasting relief they desire for their child.
4. Exhaustion from searching for solutions : The constant search for new treatment options, doctors and therapies can exhaust parents physically and emotionally.
5. Feelings of guilt: Some parents develop feelings of guilt because they think they could have prevented the disease or treated it better.
6. Stress due to nighttime disturbances: Itching and discomfort can affect the child's sleep, which in turn leads to sleep deprivation and stress for the parents.
7. Social isolation: The need to avoid certain situations or environments can lead to a feeling of social isolation for the entire family.

Why self-care is so important for parents

As parents, you are the most important support for your child. But to fulfill this role, you also have to pay attention to your own needs. Here are some reasons why self-care is so important:

1. Stress reduction : Less stress for you often means less stress for your child.
2. Better decision-making skills : Rested and balanced, you can make informed decisions about treatment.
3. Role model function : You show your child how important it is to take care of themselves.
4. Maintaining the quality of the relationship : When you take care of yourself, you have more energy for a loving relationship with your child.

What can parents do for themselves?

1. Take time out : Schedule regular breaks during which you do something just for yourself.
2. Prioritize sleep : Try to get enough sleep despite possible nighttime disturbances.
3. Accept support : Don’t be afraid to accept help from family and friends.
4. Exchange ideas : Seek contact with other affected parents, e.g. in self-help groups.
5. Seek professional help : Psychological support can also be helpful if needed.

How can friends and relatives help?

Dear relatives and friends, you can be a valuable support:

1. Listen without judging : Sometimes parents just need an open ear.
2. Offer practical help : Helping with household chores, doing the shopping or looking after siblings can be a great relief.
3. Stay informed : Learn about atopic dermatitis to better understand the situation.
4. Respect boundaries : Accepts when parents have to cancel or refuse help.
5. Give quality time : Give parents time for themselves by taking care of the child.

Further information and self-help groups

If you would like to talk to other affected parents or seek further support, you can find some helpful resources here:

• German Neurodermatitis Association (DNB) : Offers information, prevention and education on the subject of neurodermatitis.
• Bundesverband Neurodermitis eV : Supports those affected with advice, information and regular exchange of experiences.
• German Allergy and Asthma Association (DAAB) : Provides information and support for allergy and asthma sufferers, including those with atopic dermatitis.
• Working Group for Neurodermatitis Training (AGNES) : Here you will find training centers for neurodermatitis sorted by zip code.
• Kindernetzwerk eV : An umbrella organization for parents' self-help in Germany with numerous member organizations that also deal with neurodermatitis.

These organizations not only provide information, but also the opportunity to exchange ideas with other affected parents and support each other. Don't hesitate to contact them - you are not alone with your challenges!

A final word

Remember: you are not alone. It is normal and important that you think about yourself too. Only when you are feeling well can you offer your child the best possible support.

All the best and lots of strength for your journey!

Your Grahams Natural Team