While experiencing a wide range of complex emotions that may include shock, confusion, anxiety, fear, exhaustion and a sense of helplessness, new parents quickly develop a sense of purpose, resilience, and even hope as they work with health professionals to gradually explore and pinpoint functional and emotional changes, physical, cognitive and mental health conditions and potential treatments.
As different conditions often have similar symptoms, getting a clear picture can lead to targeted therapies, rather than misidentified signs and potentially harmful or ineffective treatments.
After all, getting an explanation and understanding of their youngster’s situation—their health, learning or behavioural challenges—may be one of the most important ways to come to terms with the next best steps.
Obtaining a diagnosis can provide a name for this can be both validating and cathartic, as well as supportive when it comes to talking to doctors, OTs, PTs, etc., and silencing self-blame. With clarity, parents and extended families can learn to use medical language and become compassionate advocates, and story tellers. As everyone gains a better understanding of what their youngster is experiencing, options can be discussed and informed decisions made. Experts tell us that, in many cases, an accurate determination can slow disease progression at the right time, reduce anxiety and discomfort for the child, lead to less complications and stop unnecessary tests and procedures.
Often required to better navigate the healthcare system, access specific medical, educational, or social support services, as well as health insurance coverage or disability benefits an official diagnosis can open doors. Learning the right patient-centred language and terminology related to a child’s ‘named’ condition can also reduce confusion and facilitate understanding as hospital specialist teams and community support groups provide practical suggestions and care.
With new found knowledge comes access to other parents with similar lived experience, alongside an opportunity to craft innovative accommodations, relevant accessibility features relating to any visual, hearing, motor or cognitive needs for visible and invisible symptoms. Whether at home, school or in day-to-day activities, a diagnosis is a valuable tool that empowers, facilitates continuous education, reduces judgment or stigma and helps breaks down a child’s life limiting barriers.
Caroline Tapp-McDougall
Publisher-Editor
caroline@bcsgroup.com
Image: iStock
