When it comes to traumatic experiences, a sudden lice infestation ranks right up there with death and divorce. The immediate aftermath can be chaotic, disrupting your family’s tranquility much like a tornado uproots a mobile home. Expect stuffed animals to be banished, washing machines to work overtime, and parents to lose their sanity.
But once the initial crisis subsides, there are lingering effects that can lead to what might be termed Post-Traumatic Lice Disorder (PTLD). Unfortunately, there is no known remedy for this condition.
Five years ago, my daughter was in third grade when she unknowingly brought home a severe case of head lice. I was blissfully unaware for weeks. In my defense, she has long, thick, wavy hair that made it nearly impossible to spot the invaders. Being over 40 and lacking my reading glasses didn’t help either. The shocking moment came when I decided to use a blow dryer instead of letting her hair air dry. To my horror, a swarm of bugs erupted from her hair, and thus began a nightmarish six-week ordeal.
This included chopping her hair to chin length, washing bedding daily in hot bleach, steam cleaning furniture, and suffocating treasured toys in garbage bags. We endured countless combing sessions and nightly checks, while I lay awake imagining bugs crawling through my own hair. (Feeling itchy yet?)
What I didn’t foresee were the long-term consequences of PTLD—seeing imaginary bugs for years and taking every possible precaution to keep them at bay. Some might label this behavior obsessive, but I prefer to think of it as a proactive approach to lice prevention. Here are a few strategies that have worked for me:
- Mandatory Hoodies: Whenever going to a movie or flying, always bring a hoodie. Regardless of the temperature outside, throw it over the seat to prevent hair from touching upholstered surfaces. Panic mode activates if hoodies ever go out of style.
- Mindful Public Seating: You can’t always predict where lice may lurk in public spaces. If you find yourself without a hoodie, sit up straight and avoid leaning back. If offered to relax, declare your support for proper Victorian posture.
- Coat and Backpack Separation: In any group setting, kids’ coats and backpacks often end up in a jumbled heap. Visualize those little bugs having a party in that pile. Encourage your children to keep their belongings in a separate area.
- Preventive Products: Explore natural hair care lines like Fairy Tales, which claim to ward off future lice encounters. They smell amazing and leave hair feeling soft. The effectiveness may be debatable, but who wants to tempt the lice gods?
- Avoid Trying on Hats: Trying on hats in stores is akin to engaging in a risky activity. Remember, you’re not just wearing a hat—you’re potentially donning a lice haven. Consider investing in a steam cleaner and nit comb, as you may need them soon.
Even if friends and family understand your PTLD, they may not fully appreciate your vigilance. When a friend mentioned her daughter’s frequent lice issues, I practically leaped off her couch. My friend, who is quite laid back about cleanliness, suggested I pick up a product called Licefreee! (with an exclamation point for emphasis). “We use it all the time!” she assured me.
A couple of summers ago, my ex-husband took our daughter to a crowded street fair. They posed for silly pictures in a photo booth, and to my horror, I saw her smiling under a variety of hats provided by the vendor. I think I blacked out momentarily, then rushed to the store for more Licefreee!
The key takeaway for anyone who has survived a lice outbreak is perspective. It’s not the end of the world—there are far worse challenges out there. Keep reminding yourself of this as you spray down sleeping bags and clothes with anti-lice products before summer camp. And don’t forget those hoodies!
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In summary, lice outbreaks can be traumatic, leaving behind a legacy of vigilance. By implementing these prevention strategies, you can help ensure that your family remains lice-free and your peace of mind intact.