10 Back to School Tips for Chronic Disease Patients
A new school year is about to begin, and as exciting as a return to class can be, COVID-19 still poses significant risks for students and teachers, especially those living with a chronic disease.
The following helpful Back to School Tips for Chronic Disease Patients will help ensure patients and their education team have the insight and tools necessary for a safe return to in-person classes.
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1. Ask Your Doctor if the COVID-19 vaccine is Right for You
The first of our ten Back to School Tips for Chronic Disease Patients is to ask about the COVID-19 vaccine. COVID-19 vaccines have proven to be safe and effective for most individuals, including most chronic disease patients. Before you return to school, ask your doctor if the vaccine is a safe choice for you.
Your doctor may provide valuable information regarding when best to schedule your vaccines to avoid possible adverse interactions with your medications.
The vaccine is now available for anyone 12 and older. If you have limited mobility, you may be able to get vaccinated at home or coordinate a ride to a vaccination center.
2. Continue to Wear a Mask
Even if you are vaccinated and there are no mask mandates in your area, chronic disease patients should continue to wear masks while out in public to protect themselves.
Teach your children the proper way to wear and remove a face covering, as well as the importance of wearing one while at school.
3. Physical Distancing
Chronic disease students and educators should maintain a physical distance of at least 6 feet from individuals who are not part of their household.
When possible, try sitting in areas that are well ventilated, such as close to open windows and doors.
4. Continue to Wash Your Hands
While at school, it may be challenging to avoid high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, handrails, and desks. Make sure to wash your hands frequently with water and soap or a hand sanitizer. In addition, consider having disinfectant wipes in your purse or backpack to clean surfaces.
5. Make Smart Food Choices
Many chronic diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s Disease, and ulcerative colitis can compromise your immune system.
An appropriate diet is essential in disease management, but it’s easy to forego healthy food in favor of quick on-the-go meals with a busy school schedule.
Make sure to plan mealtimes and consider bringing your food to ensure you or your child stays on track with your recommended diet.
6. Find a Specialist Near Campus
If you are attending school away from home, make sure you find a specialist near campus and have your doctor share your medical information with them so you can continue your treatment while at school.
If you are receiving biologic infusion treatments, it’s best to find a physician with an in-office infusion center to make your treatments more convenient and affordable.
7. Find out How to Access your School’s Mental Health Services
Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical symptoms. Studies show that chronic disease patients are more likely to suffer from depression and feelings of isolation than their healthy peers.
Going back to in-person classes can be stressful, especially knowing that the dangers of COVID-19 are still present in our communities. However, finding out what mental health services are available to you at school can go a long way in safeguarding your mental and emotional self.
Check with the school district to see what mental health services are available in your area. If your child’s school doesn’t offer these types of services, it’s possible they can recommend nearby community facilities that do.
8. Learn About Your Transportation Options
Going to and from school in times of COVID-19 can be an added source of stress. Research your transportation options and choose the one that is most convenient, safe, and accessible for your mobility needs.
Organize a carpool system with neighbors to drive your children to school. This way, you can minimize the need for public transportation.
9. Set Realistic Goals When Planning Your Schedule
Taking a heavier course load or teaching more classes may seem like the right thing to do, but this can quickly lead to increased fatigue and burnout.
Be mindful of how many extracurricular activities kids enroll in without curtailing their enthusiasm.
It’s crucial to know your limits and not overextend yourself. A thoughtful analysis of how much you can handle will allow you to enjoy your educational experience much more.
10. Listen to Your Body
Living with a chronic disease means you need to make taking care of your body’s needs a priority.
It’s easy to forget to take your medication, eat, and hydrate regularly when busy with schoolwork.
However, it’s imperative that you keep taking your medication as prescribed by your doctor, as well as get plenty of sleep, and maintain a balanced diet.
Speak to your doctor if you experience any new or worsening symptoms, and don’t be afraid to ask for support from teachers and fellow students when needed.
