How to Embrace Your Chronic Illness Journey with Cheryl Crow OTR/L

Cheryl Crow, OTR/L, is an occupational therapist who lives with Rheumatoid arthritis and runs a support group for others living with chronic illness. She also practices and applies Acceptance and Commitment Therapy into her own life and in her work.In our chat, Cheryl shares about:Her diagnosis story and experience with medical gaslightingHow she came to run a support group for people with rheumatoid arthritis and chronic illnessThe mental health journey of living–and thriving–with chronic illness even when you are still in discomfort after trying all the things in your toolboxAnd how acceptance is different from resignationCheryl Crow is a fierce advocate for meeting the full picture of patients’ needs beyond joint pain. After living with rheumatoid arthritis for over a decade and becoming an occupational therapist, Cheryl founded Arthritis Life with the mission of educating, empowering and supporting people with arthritis.Cheryl is known for her entertaining yet educational videos featuring arthritis life hacks, product demonstrations, and insights into the psychosocial aspects of life with invisible chronic illness. She created and hosts the Arthritis Life Podcast and runs the online self-management course and support group Rheum to THRIVE, where she helps people adjust to their conditions and live full and meaningful lives.Contact Cheryl:Arthritis Life website (program & podcast info here)Instagram @arthritis_life_cheryl Also mentioned in this episode:Autoimmune diseaseAcceptance and Commitment TherapyThe Happiness Trap by Russ HarrisDr Steven C. HayesKristin Neff and self-compassionDr John Gottman Connect with me!DM me on Instagram @mindfulnessforpmddFREE Meditations for PMDD for You from Me! (Insight Timer)Thanks for listening! <3If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe.And if you know someone with PMDD, please share this podcast.And remember ... Stop. Take a breath. And observe. xoDiane