Addressing the Emotional Toll of Rare Diseases

People with rare and chronic conditions often become so focused on the treatment of their physical ailments that the psychological and emotional aspects of their diseases can be neglected. Allison Fine, a clinical social worker, founded the Center for Chronic Illness in Seattle to provide professionally-led support groups to people with ongoing health challenges. We spoke to Fine about her work, the psychological toll rare conditions can take, and how these patients can go about finding help they need.