As we start to shift back to some of our usual activities after the suspension that Covid created for our families and communities we all will have a lot to digest. As a pediatrician I encourage you to think through some of these areas that you would like to talk to your pediatrician about at your child’s next well visit.
As pediatricians we have experienced an unprecedented slow down in our schedules in the last few weeks. Children and teens have largely not been affected by Covid and have not needed our care for routine sick visits and well visits had been suspended during a time of uncertainty. We have now sorted out how to keep ourselves, our office staff and patients safe— but what about the emotional trail that Covid has left?. As pediatricians we have felt the loss of our usual roles, our connections to our patients and our wondering if there are any non Covid illnesses that may be missed due to the stress from Covid on our patients’ day to day life.
When you do see your pediatrician, they will want to know how you all have fared as a family during this time. It is important to allow your child, if they are old enough to tell their story, to do so honestly. Cataloging the losses as well as the unexpected opportunities or experiences. If you have noticed a significant change in your child’s mood, behavior, eating or sleep habits these would be important to address up front as well. There are many tips pediatricians can provide to ease mild symptoms.
There may be some topics and areas that you want to discuss without your child in the room. These may be losses you are feeling as an adult and are wondering how to help yourself so as to help your child sort through them. Each pediatrician has a different style for handling this, so just ask them.
We are looking forward to seeing you all soon. We will get through this together.
