General information

About the Addison's Disease Self Help Group

The story of our charity: from it's humble beginnings in 1984, led by the passion, drive and insight of our founder, Deana Kenward, to the impactful and well-respected organisation it has developed into. Understand our work and how we can support those with Addison's and adrenal insufficiency.

What are Addison's disease and adrenal insufficiency?

This leaflet covers the causes of Addison's and adrenal insufficiency, the role of the adrenal glands and essential steroid hormones, and the effect that these conditions can have on day-to-day life. Give this leaflet to those around you is a great way of educating them about the things that affect you. The language is purposefully straight forward and it is intended to be an introduction rather than an 'everything you need to know' leaflet.

When an employee has Addison's disease or adrenal insufficiency

Written to help those of you who are newly diagnosed to explain your condition to your employer, or for anyone with adrenal insufficiency who is moving to a new job, or perhaps has a new boss.

When a student has Addison's : A guide for schools & parents

Fasting with adrenal insufficiency

Authored by Dr Shazia Hussein, and endorsed by the Society for Endocrinology, this patient leaflet gives tips on reducing the risks of becoming unwell if you decide to fast, and when it's advisable not to fast. It also offers alternatives to those who are considered too high-risk for fasting.

Support with managing your condition

Managing your Addison's and adrenal insufficiency

A summary of the key points everyone with adrenal insufficiency, including Addison's, needs to know about how to manage their health; to be aware, be prepared and be understood. Equally applicable whether you are recently diagnosed or an 'expert patient'. Written by the ADSHG, in collaboration with our Clinical Advisory Panel, and noting the 2024 NICE Guidelines for the Identification and Management of Adrenal Insufficiency.

Medical summary & consultation Reference guide

Steroid Emergency Cards

An alternative to the NHS Steroid Emergency Card; our fold out design includes adrenal crisis treatment guidelines as well as giving you space for your personal medical details - all in one place.

How to give an emergency injection - leaflets for your kit

Step-by-step photo instructions for giving an emergency injection using hydrocortisone sodium succinate for injection (to be used with water)

Steroid medication and emergency injection refusal letters

We wish it wasn't necessary, but... the aim of these letters is not to aggravate healthcare professionals who are there to help support you, but rater to emphasize the critical nature of the treatments you require, and to signpost them to the NICE Guidelines for the Identification and Management of Adrenal Insufficiency

Summary Care Record Letter for GPs

Your Summary Care Record shows an overview of your key health conditions and the treatment you require. It will be accessed by ambulance staff and other healthcare professionals in an emergency, so needs to be kept up to date. Use our GP template letter to ensure your doctor has updated yours.

Information to share with your healthcare team

Awareness raising resources

ADSHG Posters

Help raise awareness of Addison's disease and adrenal insufficiency by sharing our posters.

Diagnosis Infographics. "Think Addison's disease - save a life"

Download our graphics to raise awareness of the subtle symptoms of Addison's disease.

You might also be interested in

Books

See our books about Addison's and adrenal insufficiencyincluding our new cookbook!

Videos

Take a look at the training and information videos we have produced.

Online shop

Discover products to help you manage and raise awareness of your condition alongside other items that we think you will enjoy.