THE EMOTIONAL NEEDS OF ALLERGIC AND ASTHMATIC-PATIENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES

This article describes the emotional needs of allergic and asthmatic p atients and their families that must be addressed if optimal managemen t and well-being is to be achieved. Health care professionals need to recognize the psychosocial issues of patients and parents, which inclu de the effect of stressors, illness perceptions, fears, and concerns a nd that the management of asthma and allergies requires a team effort, involving a wide variety of health care professionals, e.g., physicia ns, nurses, social workers, psychologists, teachers, as well as involv ement of voluntary health organizations and local support groups. Asth ma self-management educational programs address these emotional needs and provide the foundation for gaining control.