I talk about safe friends on this blog, in my book, in coaching sessions and in the talks that I gave during the FAAN conferences about building food allergy confidence. Generally speaking, a safe friend, in my definition is: non-judgmental, supportive, flexible, open, understanding that food allergies are a medical need ("safe" for you is whatever you make it).
Recently, the New York Times agreed (more or less): “Researchers have lately gathered abundant evidence that female friendship is one of nature’s preferred narrative tools.” From the New York Times, The Spirit of Sisterhood Is in the Air and on the Air:
"You have to have somebody to hang onto,” Dr. Seyfarth said. “A friend gives you an element of predictability and certainty, and you can use that to buffer you against all the things you don’t have control over. There’s a biochemical component to this.” A familiar friend calms and equilibrates, mops up the cortisol spills that can weaken the immune system, and in so doing may help lengthen life — in baboons, humans and other group-minded kinds. “Yes, having coffee with friends is good for you,” Dr. Silk said, “and we should all do it often."
Can you equally point to the supporters in your life who truly get your dietary restrictions? I hope yes! Now take that knowledge and help your child to find those people in their lives. Whether two years old or 20, safe friendships abound. Find them, lean on them. Need some assistance finding a safe friend? I’m here - ask me!
Can you equally point to the supporters in your life who truly get your dietary restrictions? I hope yes! Now take that knowledge and help your child to find those people in their lives. Whether two years old or 20, safe friendships abound. Find them, lean on them. Need some assistance finding a safe friend? I’m here - ask me!