SUPPORT GROUPS FOR INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS

Contact the Interstitial Cystitis Association (ICA) for a local group.

ICA
110 North Washington Street, Suite 340
Rockville, MD 20850 USA
(800) HELP ICA
(301) 610-5300
http://www.ichelp.org/http://www.ichelp.org

National Association for Continence
(formerly: Help for Incontinent People)
P.O. Box 8310
Spartanburg, SC 29305
PHONE (864) 579-7900
FAX (864) 579-7902
http://www.nafc.org/http://www.nafc.org

GENERAL INFORMATION:
Support groups consist of people who have come together to share the common experiences and problems unique to their disease or condition. Support groups are organized to deal with four main sources of stress: mental or physical illness, addictive or obsessive behavior, personal crisis or life changes, and caring for disabled family members.

In addition to being a place to meet people who share a common bond, self-help/support groups also help members in other ways. Through newsletters and regular contact with other people in similar situations, members receive up-to-date information regarding their disability and treatments that are available. Along with this sharing comes understanding and a sense of belonging. Research confirms that the coming together of people in trouble serves to increase self esteem, decrease anxiety and depression, and raise levels of overall well being.

Information on support groups in your area can be found in a variety of ways. Handbooks of community resources, including support groups, are usually available in local libraries and hospitals. Major groups are often listed in the Yellow pages under "social service agencies."