Community In IBD: How to Stop Being Isolated Featuring Aaron Blocker

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD184   Amber talks with Aaron Blocker, a Crohn's disease patient and advocate, about the importance of finding and creating community for people touched by IBD. Online and in-person groups offer support and serve as platforms to share practical tips and counter misinformation. Aaron points out that it's important to find a balance between advocacy, health, and personal life when offering support to others. Both emphasize the value of authenticity and learning from mistakes. The conversation stresses the importance of caring for mental health, the power of connection, and staying true to one's own reasons for taking part in community.   Topics discussed on this episode: Importance of community for people living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) Challenges and rewards of sharing disease experiences online Navigating negative comments and misinformation in online communities Strategies for engaging with IBD communities and providing support Balancing community involvement with personal health and family life Mental health considerations when participating in online discussions Importance of authenticity and passion in advocacy work Addressing misinformation and promoting accurate health information within the community Chapters: 0:05 Intro & Sponsor 1:23 Aaron's Background & Group Origin 5:30 Power of Community 8:08 Support in Community 11:44 Getting Involved in IBD Communities 15:16 Before Sharing Online 16:15 Motivation & Authenticity 19:10 Combating Misinformation 25:20 Boundaries & Balance 31:52 Mental Health & Selective Sharing 34:55 Handling Criticism & Mistakes 38:11 Referring Out & Collaboration 39:18 Responding to Criticism 40:13 Aaron's Socials & Closing 41:53 Outro & Credits Find Aaron Blocker at: Facebook: @SupportIBD YouTube: @aaronblocker Instagram: @AaronBlocker_ Web: https://www.aaronblocker.com Find Amber J Tresca at: AboutIBD.com: About IBD Verywell Health: Verywell Health Facebook: @aboutIBD Twitter: @aboutIBD Pinterest: @aboutibd Instagram: @about_IBD YouTube: @AboutIBD Threads: @about_ibd Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at: Facebook: @maccooneycomposer Instagram: @maccooneycomposer YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer Web: Cooney Studio Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio. These show notes contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.