SUPPORT GROUPS FOR TAY-SACHS DISEASE:

National Tay-Sachs and Allied Diseases Association, Inc. (NTSAD)
2001 Beacon Street, Suite 204
Brighton, MA 02135
(800) 906-8723
www.ntsad.org

Genetic Alliance, Inc.
4301 Connecticut Ave. NW, Suite 404
Washington, DC 20008
(202) 966-5557
www.geneticalliance.org

National Organization for Rare Disorders, Inc. (NORD)
55 Kenosia Ave.
P.O. Box 1968
Danbury, CT 06813-1968
(203) 744-0100
(800) 999-6673 (voicemail only)

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."