Written by Veronica Turner

The effects of childhood illnesses can linger, shaping mental health for years to come.

For instance, chronic conditions like asthma or diabetes require frequent medical care and lifestyle adjustments, which can contribute to feelings of difference or exclusion. In turn, long-term mental health can be significantly impacted.

The Role of Early Bonds and Attachments

Childhood illnesses can majorly impact the development of early bonds and attachments, which are the foundation for future relationships.

A child constantly in medical care might have less opportunity to cultivate strong connections with peers or siblings. Over time, these disruptions can lead to difficulties in forming close relationships, potentially stimulating long-term feelings of loneliness or isolation.

This could then contribute to mental health problems such as depression and social anxiety disorders later in life.

Social Exclusion

Following on from the last point, social relations can take a hit when battling health issues during the early years.

Difficulty in keeping up with peers physically often leads to withdrawal from social activities or rejection by peer groups, which may trigger depression in later life stages.

Stress Factors

Dealing with illnesses in childhood can create an inherent level of stress. Often, that can result in anxiety symptoms as a reaction to the situation.

For example, fear of recurring symptoms or impending medical appointments can lead to prolonged periods of worry.

Impact on Self-Image and Identity

One of the profound long-term mental health impacts can be seen in the child’s developing self-image and identity.

Chronic illness might cause children to feel different or develop the perception that they are ‘abnormal’.

Over time, this negative self-image can lead to problems like body dysmorphic disorder or eating disorders.

Thus, addressing these distorted perceptions early is vital for preventing future mental health issues.

Psychological Effects

Dealing with physical discomfort and pain frequently plays out in one’s mental arena, affecting sufferers’ perceptions of self and overall satisfaction in life.

It’s not uncommon for such circumstances to lead to low self-esteem and a pessimistic worldview.

Impact on Education

Educational opportunities may be hampered by chronic sickness, as well.

In addition to the physical toll it takes, illness may cause cognitive impairments or interruptions in schooling that hinder academic progress.

Consequently, this educational disruption feeds into one’s mental well-being resulting in feelings of insecurity or dissatisfaction.

Long-Term Trauma

The traumatic experience of prolonged medical treatments during formative years can carve deep emotional scars and even lead to PTSD in some cases.

Also, the repeated pain and invasiveness related to certain treatments can leave lingering fears or aversions tied closely to one’s self-sense.

Resilience Development

There is a flip side. Some children who experience illnesses early in life develop extraordinary resilience over time.

In dealing with adversity at a young age, they may acquire coping skills that fortify them against future mental health challenges.

Therefore, outcomes are not always negative. Childhood illness can sometimes lead to heightened emotional robustness in adulthood.

The Importance of Professional Help

Entrusting mental well-being with professionals who specialize in child psychology becomes crucial when dealing with the aftermath of childhood ailments.

The intervention of experts at an early stage can help individuals to manage issues such as anxiety and depressive symptoms. In turn, that can reduce the chances of long-term mental health ramifications.

Additionally, mental health professionals can offer strategies to help people navigate the social and educational hurdles that can be caused by illnesses.

This professional involvement and support can act as a strong buffer against more serious future mental health implications.

Wrapping Up

Early intervention and supportive environments can mitigate the potential long-term mental health effects of childhood illnesses.

So, if your child has an illness, make sure you take steps to lessen the impact that the illness could have on their mental health later in life. The first step is to contact a mental health professional.

Author Bio: Veronica Turner is a health and lifestyle writer with over 10 years of experience. She creates compelling content on nutrition, fitness, mental health, and overall wellness.”

Please also review AIHCP’s Health Care Life Coach Certificate program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  These programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification.

Written By Lucy Peters

Approximately one in 13 people live with asthma, according to the Center For Disease Control. That equates to 25 million adults and children in America that are going through the daily routine of avoiding asthma attacks and triggers. While one of the most commonly cited triggers is outdoor pollen, there is also overwhelming evidence that the quality of the indoor environment can just as easily trigger or cause asthma or related illnesses. Around two-thirds of people living with asthma say that the air quality worsens their symptoms. However, a key part of resolving this lies in understanding the indoor elements that can trigger asthma and educating asthma patients on avoiding these triggers.

Tobacco And Indoor Smoke

The presence of smoke has been well documented as a trigger for both asthma and asthma-related illnesses such as lung disease. People living with asthma who are exposed to second-hand smoke from cigarettes are more like to have an asthma attack or develop sinus infections. Children also face an increased risk of developing respiratory illnesses and airway inflammation. In 2009, toxic fumes given off by candles was also shown to increase indoor air particulates. This has been shown to compromise lung and respiratory function. Instead, patients can opt for paraffin-free alternatives and maintain moderation when lighting candles to avoid these effects. For tobacco smoke, avoiding smoking in the home or close to it minimizes contact with it.

The Presence And Encouragement Of Allergens  

The presence of certain allergens in the home can cause both asthma and allergies related conditions, including eczema and exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology estimates that around 90 percent of those with asthma also have exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB). The symptoms include tight chest feelings, sneezing and other signs commonly seen with seasonal and outdoor allergies. However, the triggers can also include pet dander, dust mites and cockroaches – all synonymous with the indoor environment. Other studies have shown that exposure to dust mites and termites such as cockroaches is a key trigger of asthma in children. However, a Tulane University study showed that the use of elimination measures such as cockroach bait in a home resulted in as many as 50 fewer days of asthma symptoms a year.

The reduction of these allergens to aid indoor air quality revolves around simple ongoing habits in the home like identifying the source of allergens such as pets, bedding, wall to wall carpet and damp areas. To avoid dust mites, the practice of weekly cleaning habits such as vacuuming and wiping down any surfaces that may attract dust can help. For those with pets, regular brushing and bathing may help reduce the shedding of pet dander. Steps can also be taken to reduce the buildup of moisture in the home by addressing any leaks, using a humidifier, and opening windows after a shower. A damp environment fosters the growth of slow-growing fungi like Stachybotrys, which releases airborne mold spores and can cause skin rashes, breathing difficulties and lung disease. Exposure to mold types like black mold has been shown to trigger severe asthma attacks in asthma patients.

Transmission Of Outdoor Air Pollution

While proper ventilation of the home is key to preventing humidity buildup, it is also important to limit the transfer of outdoor pollens to the indoor environments. Several studies have shown that lengthened exposure to air pollution can both exacerbate and cause asthma in children and adults. Pregnant women who have been exposed to high levels of pollution are not only more likely to develop asthma, but their unborn child is also more likely to develop the condition or have a compromised immune system.

Checking pollution forecasts for high pollen times can identify ideal times to close windows and other openings of the building. Additionally, asthma patients can utilize extractor fans and air conditioners to remove any existing pollens in the home. Finally, ensuring the doors and windows are properly sealed can help avoid outdoor irritants like pollen or smoke from entering the home.

Finally, if the current indoor environment contains any of these triggers, being aware of the early signs of asthma or asthma-related illness will alert patients about when to seek medical help. Frequent coughing, shortness of breath, nasal congestion and other signs of allergies may indicate it may be time to speak to a doctor.

Please also review AIHCP’s Health Care Life Coach Program and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.  The program in online and independent study and open to qualified professionals.