On Support Groups

Hello! In this blog post, I’m going to introduce you to a couple of great support groups available to those with Celiac Disease. I’ll also explain why support groups are useful to those with Celiac Disease. You may think that support groups aren’t necessary, but it’s always a good idea to talk to someone who may be going through the same situation you are. An added bonus of a Celiac Disease support groups is not only that it allows one to connect with other people who have Celiac Disease, but it can also help one stay on a gluten-free diet by keeping each other accountable.

Following a strict gluten-free diet can be difficult, and if someone with Celiac Disease slips up it can put them at risk for a number of different complications. A support group is a very good way to avoid this.

There are both in-person and online support groups available to those with Celiac Disease. There are several different ways to find these groups; I’ll list a few of them here:

• First, one can always check at their local hospital, the doctors will often know other people who share the disease, and can help get everyone together
•   Second, one can find different support groups through various organizations such as:  
• The National Foundation for Celiac Awareness
• The Celiac Disease Foundation
• R.O.C.K (Raising Our Celiac Kids)
•  Finally, one can tap into online communities such as:
• Online blogs (like this one!)
• Newsletter subscriptions
• E-mail alerts for breaking news in the Celiac Disease  community

If you do decide to attend one of these meetings it’s a good idea to reach out to someone and ask them for any extra help you need. There may be people who are willing to show you the ropes while grocery shopping; or offer other helpful tips. Groups can also meet at restaurants so that newer members can learn how to order from restaurant menus. Another way a support group can help is to answer questions for new members.

I hope that this information is helpful in finding a support group that it right for you and your loved ones. This will be my last blog post here. I wish you and your loved ones the best in their lives. I want you to know that you can have a happy and fulfilled life even with Celiac Disease. It's been fun, bye!