Watch back! Wellbeing Webinar with Rareminds 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 Liason Manager) and Katie Harris (ADSHG Trustee), both who 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. Below are two comments from attendees: Click the link below to watch back! Professional support Anxiety and depression are serious mental health conditions, which can affect anyone, regardless of culture, background and 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 Coping with psychological stress We explain why more hydrocortisone may be required to cope with psychological stress and outline some techniques to reduce stress and improve wellbeing. Rareminds Wellbeing Hub Resources for all aspects of living with a rare condition, with sections dedicated to diagnosis, uncertainty, change and loss, relationships, feelings, healthcare navigation and many other challenges. Online Forum Speak with others who just 'get it'! A welcoming space to share experiences, ask questions and discuss the practicalities of living with Addison's and adrenal insufficiency. 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. Contact other national charities The charity 'Scope - Equality for Disabled People' offers a helpline if you would like to talk on the phone. Reach out to Mind and Rethink Contact - a charity for families of disabled children offers a 'listening ear' service. Connect with the rare diseases community. Check out Rare Disease UK, Rare Revolution and Cambridge Rare Disease Network. Whether you're newly diagnosed or have lived with the condition for years - please join our community and support our cause! You'll receive the latest expert advice, guidance and ADSHG news, whilst being part of our inspiring and supportive community. Become a member today! Join the ADSHG Connect on social media! Follow us on X/Twitter, Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok and YouTube. Manage Cookie Preferences