Page 84 - The Ultimate Guidebook for Teens with Food Allergies

Sydney H. - When people do not understand my allergies, I usually just come out and say that, if I consume that food, it is life-threatening! I then explain the symptoms of anaphylaxis, how I feel when experiencing them, and the treatment that is required.
To wrap it up...
There are, unfortunately, many people out there who, while they may have good intentions, just can't seem to grasp the severity of food allergies and how they need to be handled. Luckily, with increasing awareness in schools and in the community, more and more people do understand food allergies. But dealing with those who don’t is still an issue and can be quite frustrating.
When someone doesn’t seem to “get it,” they often just haven’t been given a proper explanation about what life-threatening food allergies actually are (and how serious they can be). When dealing with these people, it helps to be very straightforward with them and explain as clearly as possible what you are allergic to, what can happen if you consume your allergen, and what needs to be done to help you.
Sometimes, however, people still seem unwilling to budge. In these cases, often the person has another conflicting interest in mind. Try to see things from their perspective as best you can and see if there is anything you can do for them to make it easier for them to accommodate you. This sounds a little crazy, right? It’s difficult, but it can be done. Compromising is often very effective. The person will realize that you are not trying to make their life difficult and that your allergies are serious enough that you are willing to go out of your way to help them so that they can accommodate you.
If all else fails, removing yourself from the situation may be necessary so that you stay safe. Often, however, by explaining yourself clearly and offering to help them, you will manage to get the person to realize the severity of your allergies and what needs to be done to keep you safe.
Summary Tips
1) Try to turn the situation into a positive by educating them about allergies.
2) Keep in mind that allergies are very new to some people.
3) Sometimes a compromise is needed. But make sure it’s not at the expense of your safety.