When starting at a new school, you are bound to meet new people and make new friends. You may have to give yourself infusions when housemates are around or store your factor in a common fridge. Inevitably, you will have to share your hemophilia with others. On a practical note, letting someone know you have hemophilia is a good idea in case of an emergency.
You might worry they will get scared or treat you differently. But sharing personal information with friends actually strengthens relationships. Often others have had their own struggles and can relate on some level to the hardships you have to overcome. To help feel less anxious about sharing your condition with others, try role playing with old friends that already know.
Here are some tips when talking about hemophilia:
- Be honest and share as much as you are comfortable with sharing.
- Ask that friends or roommates keep the information you give them confidential.
- Give your friends a chance to ask questions and be open to answering them.
- Suggest websites or pamphlets that friends can read on their own for more information. The Canadian Hemophilia Society and the World Federation of Hemophilia are accurate and easy-to-read.
- Depending on your comfort level, let your friends watch during your infusions if they choose. Seeing how easy it is helps them realize that having hemophilia is not a big deal.
