A Path to Support Yourself while Caring for Others
Explore Resources to Help You Support Family & Friends with Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune diseases are often called “family diseases” because their debilitating symptoms impact not only those diagnosed but also their loved ones. As a caregiver, friend, or colleague of someone with an autoimmune condition, the demands can be overwhelming, especially during flare–ups.
Given the unpredictable nature of these diseases, it’s essential to prioritize your own well-being while providing care. We offer a range of tools and resources to help you manage the challenges, lighten your load, and take care of yourself to prevent burnout.
Give In Kind
Give InKind is a nonprofit that offers free and simple ways to organize support.
- Care Calendar to schedule care
- Wishlist to share items needed
- Personalized page to keep your family & friends up-to-date
- Fundraising features to ease financial burdens
Powerful Tools for Caregivers
Powerful Tools for Caregivers is a nonprofit offering in-person and virtual classes to help family caregivers manage stress, improve communication, and practice self-care.
The program also provides additional resources and peer support to maintain caregiver well-being.
Browse Caregiver Tools
Be There Certificate
The Be There Certificate is a free, self-paced online course that equips you to support someone struggling with their mental health.
In under two hours, you’ll complete six interactive lessons that enhance your mental health literacy and practical skills.
Get Started
Caregiver Organizations
Caregiver Action Network (CAN) is the nation’s leading family caregiver organization working to improve the quality of life for the more than 90 million Americans who care for loved ones.
Publications: Today’s Caregiver and The Caregiver Space
Caregiver Support Groups
Virtual Caregivers Support Groups are guided by a licensed mental health professional and are a great opportunity for caregivers to meet and explore shared experiences as a caregiver.
Family Caregiver Alliance’s Online Caregiver Support Group
Explore Related Steps to Remission
Manage Flares
When you find yourself amid a flare, the best thing you can do is focus on self-care to make your way back to remission. Check out our flare management resources, thoughtfully collected to mitigate pain and other symptoms.
Explore Steps to Manage Flares
Ease Your Mind
It can be discouraging and frustrating when you’re in a flare and dependent on others for day-to-day support. Our mental health resources can help you manage difficult periods and ongoing challenges living with an autoimmune disease or chronic illness.
See Steps to Ease Your Mind
Nourish Your Body & Mind
Cooking and putting the work in to make a nutritious meal is often the last thing on your mind when disease symptoms arise. Meal delivery services are an easy way to get healthful meals that accommodate a variety of dietary and cooking preferences.
Discover Steps to Nourish Your Well-Being