A support group provides a unique and critical service: acceptance. This forum allows individuals to ask questions and to learn in a non-judgmental and safe environment. Participants know that everyone attending the meeting understands and has compassion for the functional difficulties of getting through each day. As a result, less frustration and energy are spent on proving or defining limitations. More energy is available for appreciating the character and companionship offered by others, and recognizing personal self-worth. We know that support groups play an important role in recovering from vestibular dysfunction and discovering your ‘new normal.’ 

In this episode of the ICU - "I See You" podcast, hosts Cynthia Ryan and Kimberly Warned talk to two people who have experienced the power of peer support, healthcare provider Sarah Conover and vestibular patient David Morrill. 

If you are interested in joining a VeDA support group you can learn more at https://vestibular.org/article/coping-support/support-groups/

This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media.

About the Guests:

Sarah Conover is a licensed vestibular physical therapist and certified health coach who helps people recover from dizziness and imbalance so they can get back to work, family responsibilities, and the active pastimes they love. Through one on one telehealth visits and her online group program, Sarah uses a diverse approach to address chronic dizziness as well as the anxiety and fears that often coexist. Sarah has degrees from the University of Evansville and the University of Indianapolis. She obtained Vestibular Competency through the rigorous Herdman program at Emory University in 2005 and also has advanced training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, functional nutrition, and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. Sarah's services as a PT and a health coach are available at https://www.dizzycoach.com/

David Morrill's vestibular disorder was caused by a stroke. During his recovery he found himself struggling with constant dizziness and imbalance. He didn’t know where to turn until he found VeDA. VeDA helped David understand his disorder and gave him hope that someday he could regain so many things he’d lost to his disability. Today David gives back to the community who supported him. He is the chair of VeDA’s volunteer Ambassador Board, he’s facilitated in-person, virtual, and Facebook support groups, and he is VeDA’s Community Support Coordinator.

VeDA relies on your support to help vestibular patients on their journey to find a life rebalanced. You can make a real difference by making a donation at https://vestibular.org/donate/

If you are experiencing vertigo, tinnitus, dizziness, imbalance, brain fog, or other balance-related symptoms, VeDA may be able to help. To learn more about vestibular conditions and get help finding a diagnosis, treatment, coping tools, and support visit https://vestibular.org/

For help finding a vestibular healthcare provider visit https://vestibular.org/healthcare-directory/

If you are a vestibular healthcare professional and want to reach more patients, join VeDA's Healthcare Provider Directory by becoming a member at https://vestibular.org/article/resources-for-professionals/professional-membership/. Additional benefits include patient education articles you can brand with your logo.

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