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Friends

Make sure close friends know how to help you in an emergency. Tell them how to know you are in trouble, such as if you are gasping for air during an asthma attack. Give them any special instructions on how to help you, if this applies to your condition. Tell your friends to call 911 if you are alone, or tell a teacher, school nurse, or other adult if you are at school.

Wanting to fit in with your friends and other kids at school is normal. You may resent that you have to deal with a condition that others don’t have to deal with and do things differently. It’s okay to have these feelings. But try to focus on the things that you do have in common with others. You’ll find that you are more alike than you are different. An illness or disability is a part of you. But it doesn’t define who you are. It also won’t stop you from having caring friends who accept you for who you are.

Heading to the hospital?

If you have to be away from school and your friends, you might worry that you can't be a good friend. But your time away doesn't make you a bad friend at all. Feeling like you are missing out stinks. But getting the care you need is more important…and your friends will be there when you get back! Read more about hospital visits and dealing with friendships.

More friendship links:

Making friends
Healthy and safe relationships
Handling bullying
What is disability culture?

Content last updated October 21, 2009

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