It Takes a Village…

Have you ever heard the phrase “it takes a village to raise a child”? It means if you’re trying to do something big, don’t’ go it alone. OIT is just such a “something big”. I feel like as adults, we’re constantly sold the idea that we’re only successful if we do something on our own. That couldn’t be further from the truth! Getting help doesn’t mean you’re weak, it means your smart!

If you’re going through OIT and want a village of your own, here are a few “villagers” I suggest having around you:

1. An allergist you trust. If you’re already doing OIT, you most likely have one. (If you don’t click with your doctor, find a new one!). OIT can be a scary and emotional process, so getting your treatment and medical advice from a source you trust is a big deal.

2. A cheerleader. Someone who’ll hype you up when you get scared and make things fun when you get bored. It’s easy to be your own cheerleader at the beginning of any process, but it gets exhausting after a while. Let someone else be your hype girl or guy. I promise you won’t regret it.

3. An organizational genius. Especially if you’re a teen going through this process, it helps to have someone to help keep your dose numbers and appointments straight. This villager can be a person like a parent or significant other, or it can be an app or fun planner.

4. A confidant. There are so many positives to OIT like safety, peace of mind, food freedom, I could go on. But there are also hard parts as well. When the going gets tough, the tough get someone to vent to. Journal, talk to a parent, mentor, or bff. Don’t bottle things up!

5. A Yoda. Finding someone who’s gone through the process already is invaluable. It can help you with logistics and tips plus help calm your anxiety. Even though it’s a book for young kids, I loved getting to see what the process was like. And if you don’t have anyone you know, use me! I’d love to be your OIT big sister.