On 30 September, we were delighted to welcome more than 100 of you to our free online Wellbeing webinar, run in collaboration with Rareminds. 

Recognising both the importance of emotional wellbeing and the unique challenges of living with a rare condition, our aim was to share expert advice, remind you that you’re not alone, and offer practical strategies to help support your emotional wellbeing.

We were thrilled to partner with Rebecca Hargreaves, a Counsellor with Rareminds, an excellent not-for-profit organisation providing mental health support for the rare condition community. Rebecca was joined by Philippa Sharman (ADSHG Communications and Health Liaison Manager) and Katie Harris (ADSHG Trustee), both of whom have Addison’s disease themselves, to help answer audience questions following Rebecca’s presentation. Together, they explored specific issues raised by attendees, such as managing adrenal crisis anxiety.

Following the event, attendees let us know how they found the session, with many describing the session as “empowering” and “reassuring.” 94% of people felt less isolated and 83% felt more resilient, having attended, so although it is easy to feel that there isn’t enough time, or it can wait for another day, your emotional wellbeing is really worth putting first.

One attendee shared;

Fantastic webinar this evening. Thank you so much to Rareminds and Addison's Disease Self-Help Group for hosting. It is wonderful to feel seen and supported, and to come away with lots of useful and practical suggestions to support our wellbeing.

and another;

Thank you, it was a fantastic webinar. Without sounding negative, hearing people say they have the same issues and feelings I have - anxiety, fear etc, made me feel better/ more normal! So thank you.

Professional support

Anxiety and depression are serious mental health conditions which can affect anyone, regardless of culture, background or family history. So if you experience symptoms for two weeks or more, you should talk to your GP or another healthcare professional. They will be able to do an assessment with you and recommend what to do next, so you can get the support that is right for you. It’s always going to be a hard thing to do, but asking for help and talking about your problems with someone can be really helpful. 

If you are unsure, always speak with your healthcare team to refer you for professional emotional support.

More places you can get support
Rareminds Wellbeing Hub & Podcast

Rareminds have a brilliant podcast to support mental health and cover all aspects of living with a rare condition. You can read our interview with Kym, founder and CEO of Rareminds or click below to listen.

 

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