How do you handle the stress of knowing your child has Alpha-1?

Learning to Survive a Life Crisis: If you are a parent of an Alpha-1 child, you know what we mean by "life crisis." One day you find out that you are pregnant, and that news brings joy and anticipation of a happy, healthy child who will grow up to be a successful contributor to self, family, and society. After the baby is born, or at some point in its young life, you learn that he or she has Alpha-1. Talk about a life crisis! And think about the stress that the news brings into your life.

Sooner or later every one of us undergoes some kind of life crisis, be it the loss of a family member, or some debilitating experience such as divorce or loss of a job. Generally these situations cause some or a lot of stress in the individuals who are experiencing them. It's important to realize that the stress is extrinsic, that is, coming from the outside. The stress comes from the way the person responds, both emotionally and physically, to the situation. There are some ways which have been found to reduce debilitating stress. Let's look at some of them now.

• Stop Blaming Yourself: Sure, maybe you or your loved one may share some of the responsibility for the Alpha-1"crisis," but you did nothing to create the genetic situation which resulted in your child's Alpha-1 condition. To indulge in self-blame is a wasted exercise so it's vital to move on from that feeling; the important thing is what you do with the rest of your life and what you do to provide the best care for your child. As you will see, Jamie and Brad Medlin initially felt some of that guilt, but they moved on and used their energy doing research to learn all they could about Alpha-1. They spent their energy in a positive endeavor which helped them to reduce their stress level.

• Reach Out and Communicate: You're not alone in this Alpha-1 "journey." There are plenty of other parents who are faced with the same challenges as you. They are willing and anxious to be of assistance to you. You have found the Alpha-1 Association and Alpha-1 Kids, and we are there ready to act as your support group, to listen to your feelings and fears, to hear your concerns and needs, and to help you through the days ahead. Stacy and John Castillo found the Alpha-1 Association and Alpha-1 Kids shortly after learning their daughters have Alpha-1. Within a few months they were on their way to the annual conference where they met many other Alphas and received a wealth of information. As a result they feel much more able to cope with the stress.

• Take Control of the Situation: Sure, you may feel like sitting and wishing it would all go away; we all have those feelings when faced with a crisis. Nothing will change, however, unless you take responsibility for making a plan to make it change. For example, you can get on the web and check out the research, you can make sure that you are giving your child a healthy diet, you are providing lots of opportunities for good exercise, and you are maintaining a dust-free, smoke-free environment.

• Find a Goal: This is important! The ability to establish a purpose is one of the best ways to control stress. Develop a list of priorities for you, your loved ones, and your Alpha-1 child. Keep the list nearby so you are constantly working toward your goal. If you feel a lot of stress because some goals seem too challenging, however, be prepared to modify them so they are more manageable.

• Employ Time Management: Time can be your ally if you use it wisely. Long-range planning and to-do lists can be effective stress reducers. There's nothing like a calendar to keep you on track and working toward your goals.

• Help Others: Helping someone else with their problems is a great way to take some of the pressure off yourself. Join in an online chat with other Alphas and Alpha-1 parents. Send information and everyday "tips" which you have gained to Alpha-1 Kids so we can pass them along in this newsletter. Go to the Alpha-1 Association regional meetings held several times a year. Make plans to attend the annual Alpha-1 Association conference which is held in the summer. Keep tuned in to the Alpha-1 website to find out when and where the next conference will be held. Share your experiences and handy tips for working with your child so other parents can find quicker solutions to everyday problems. Helping others is truly a liberating experience.

All of these concepts can create positive aspects which will help you to overcome the stress which can undermine your health and well-being. They are "tried and true." Give them a try!!