Smith Balance + Concussion Center to host bimonthly Invisible Illness Support Group

Just because you can't see it, donesn't mean it's not there

Submitted by Jill Ernst

The Smith Balance + Concussion Center is proud to host a bi-monthly Invisible Illness Support Group for community members suffering from an invisible illness and their support persons.

Just because we can't see it, doesn't mean it's not there. And no one knows that better than those with invisible illnesses. Concussions, PCS, Meniere's disease, reoccurring headaches, vestibular dysfunction, dizziness, and vertigo - many of these illnesses persist for months and years.

"So many of the clients I work with are dealing with chronic conditions - and the problem with these is that on the outside, these people look completely fine. On the inside, they're dealing with a whole multitude of symptoms," says Dana Tress, physical therapist and co-host of support group sessions.

Each group meeting, will focus on a different aspect of invisible illness. The support group meets from 6-7 p.m. on the second Tuesday evening of the month.

The month's group discussion will be based on the following topics:

• November 9, 2021: Strategies for Coping with the Upcoming Holidays

• January 11, 2022: Reprioritizing Your Commitments (To Yourself & Others)

• March 8, 2022: Helping Family, Friends and Other Understand

• May 10, 2022: Treatment Options for Invisible Illnesses

• July 12, 2022: Being Your Own Advocate

These groups will be led by Dana Tress, Physical Therapist and Certified Concussion Specialist, and Courtney Behrens, Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

"Our goal is to create a community of positivity and support for those of you who are dealing with any of these invisible illnesses," says Dana Tress. "You should know that even though you are dealing with one of these invisible illnesses, you are definitely not alone."

Groups are held at Smith Physical Therapy in Crystal Lake, IL (110 W Woodstock St., Unit A, Crystal Lake, IL). There is no cost to addend these group sessions, but registration is recommended. For more information or to register, call (815) 893=9075 or email dana.tress@smithptrun.com.

Current local and state COVID-19 policies and procedures will be in place for these sessions; at this time, masks are required for indoor group meetings.