5 Back-to-School Tips for Students Managing Chronic Illness

After a relaxing summer, the back-to-school season can bring a mix of excitement and nerves. But when a student is living with a chronic illness, returning to the classroom or heading off to college can come with additional pressures and responsibilities.

Whether managing epilepsy and seizures, or navigating other chronic diseases like diabetes, asthma, lupus or Crohn’s disease, preparation and communication are essential for a successful school year.

Rachel Penn, M.D., director of Pediatric Epilepsy at K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital says it’s important to set up a safety net before classes even begin. She shares five tips to prepare your student for the school year, plus advice for teens transitioning to college life.

Make a Plan (and Communicate Early)

The best way to prepare your student for the school year is to be proactive, Dr. Penn advises.

“Plan ahead, don’t wait until the first day of school: start before school starts back up,” says Dr. Penn. “Meet with the school nurse, counselors, teachers or in college maybe the RA (resident advisor) or disability services if appropriate. Make sure everyone understands the student's medical needs, medication and what to do in an emergency.”

Consider an Alert Bracelet

When emergencies happen like a sudden seizure, an asthma attack or a sharp drop in blood sugar, every second counts. Wearing a medical alert bracelet is a simple, life-saving tool.

If a student is unable to communicate during a medical event, an alert bracelet immediately provides teachers, peers and first responders with their specific diagnosis and emergency contact information.

Inform Roommates and Peers

For older students heading off to college, living away from home is a major milestone. It’s critical that they talk openly with their new roommate about their condition rather than trying to hide it.

If a student has epilepsy, for example, they should explain what their seizures look like and give their roommate step-by-step instructions on what to do. The same rule applies to other chronic illnesses: roommates should know where to find rescue inhalers or emergency snacks, and exactly when they need to call 911.

Map Out Campus Health Resources

Don't wait for a lupus flare-up or a Crohn's disease complication to figure out how to get medical help. During college move-in week, take time to physically locate the student Health Center.

Additionally, identify the closest pharmacy so prescription refills are never missed. For students managing complex conditions, it is also a great idea to find a local specialist or primary care doctor near campus so they have established care close by if they get sick.

Take Ownership of Your Health

As students grow older, the responsibility of managing a chronic illness often shifts from the parents to the teen.

“I also encourage teenagers to take ownership of their health,” notes Dr. Penn.

Empower your high school or college student to track their own symptoms, understand their personal triggers (such as lack of sleep or stress) and advocate for themselves. Knowing how to navigate disability services for academic accommodations and managing their own medication schedule will give them the confidence to thrive independently.

The Bottom Line

Taking a little time before the semester starts to pull together medical information and establish an emergency plan can make the transition back to school much smoother.

It keeps the focus on learning and making friends, saves time in an emergency and helps both parents and students head into the year with peace of mind.

Next Steps & Resources:

• Meet our source: Rachel Penn, M.D.
• Make an appointment online with a pediatric specialist or primary care provider near you, or call 800-822-8905.
• Learn more about children’s health services at Hackensack Meridian Health.