Women make up 75% of autoimmune disease diagnoses.
This means that many of those suffering from autoimmune diseases are also raising children. Along with the constant demand of cleaning diapers, making lunches, and assisting with homework, these moms may deal with numerous doctor visits, unmatched fatigue, and chronic pain. Autoimmune diseases make it hard to care for yourself, let alone children.
Even healthy parents desperately want more energy, but those suffering from autoimmune diseases need it even more. Every parent has days where all he or she can do is the bare minimum, and these days become longer and more frequent with a chronic condition. You may also have days where anxiety, depression, pain, and brain fog seem to rule. Expectant mothers are even prone to developing Hashimoto’s, an autoimmune disease that attacks the thyroid. However, this does not have to stand in the way of you loving your children. It can even make them better people!
Autoimmune Diseases Can Teach Children Valuable Lessons
A New York Times article showed that children of parents with chronic autoimmune illnesses learn:
- Flexibility
- Patience
- Self-sufficiency
- Consideration
- Self-care
- Emotions
- Compassion
Learning these skills under such circumstances may not be ideal, but they are, nevertheless, excellent lessons to learn. Every family has their own difficulties to face together, and while it may be more unique and difficult for those struggling with autoimmune disorders, rest assured that you are not alone.
Despite what you think, you are uniquely equipped to care for your family. No one is a better mother for your children than you are, and they know that is true even if they never say it themselves.
The idea of the perfect mother is a myth. All your child really needs is to know that you will always love and support them—even if you can’t make it to every soccer game. But of course, we all want to feel our best. So, if you are struggling with your health, we would love to help you! Contact our office if you need a doctor who will listen to and understand what you’re going through.
