Register today for the Resnick Celiac Disease & Gluten-Related Conditions Psychological Health Training Program on February 17, 2016 in Washington, D.C.

Living with a chronic illness that requires a lifelong commitment to a strict gluten-free diet can be difficult for anyone. For children and teens, the emotional and psychological impact associated with celiac disease can have particular and profound challenges. We know from emerging brain research, for example, that the teenage brain is especially sensitive to peer approval as they develop the ability to see themselves as others see them. No wonder, then, that celiac disease and the need for strict adherence to a gluten-free diet can cause severe stress on families and social relationships, and can contribute to a sense of social alienation, feelings of worthlessness, low self-esteem, and depression.

In the first national effort to systematically address the emotional and psychological issues of people with celiac disease and other gluten-related disorders, Celiac Disease Foundation (CDF) and Children’s National Health System (Children’s National) have launched a new partnership to expand provider education around this specific issue and to empower healthcare providers to identify and treat the medical and mental health aspects of celiac disease. CDF is grateful for this partnership, funded by a generous endowment from the Resnick Family, longtime supporters of the Foundation. Resnick family members, Rhonda and Alexis Resnick, and Celiac Disease Foundation CEO, Marilyn Geller, and Communications Manager, Talia Hassid, are proud to represent the Foundation at The Resnick Celiac Disease & Gluten-Related Conditions Psychological Health Training Program, which will be held on February 17th, 2016 in Washington, D.C.

The Training Program is a half-day multidisciplinary seminar providing education for healthcare providers about 1) the importance of proper diagnosis and management of gluten-related conditions, 2) the unique psychosocial challenges related to celiac disease and other gluten-related conditions, and 3) how to facilitate adaptive coping with chronic health conditions, such as celiac disease and other gluten-related conditions. The Training Program will offer an overview of celiac disease, practical applications to addressing psychological needs, how to help individuals and families advocate for themselves and connect with the larger celiac disease and gluten-related conditions community, and exposure to the most recent trends in gluten-free nutrition.

There is a critical need for healthcare providers to be more aware and knowledgeable about celiac disease, including accurate diagnosis and treatment, as well as recognizing and addressing the psychological factors related to living with a chronic illness. It is important to encourage collaboration across mental and medical health providers so patients can receive comprehensive care for optimum health and disease management.

Register for the February 17, 2016 Training Program at Children’s National in Washington D.C. at childrensmedicaleducation.org.

The Training Program will also be offered at the CDF National Conference on April 30, 2016 at the Pasadena Convention Center. Click here to register for the Celiac Disease & Gluten-Related Disorders Healthcare Provider Education Seminar at the Conference.

Download the Training Manual