How to Titrate Down from Opioids or Benzodiazepines Even with a Chronic Condition
Presenter
Patrise Holden
Sickle Cell Disease sessions
Free, live conversations for people living with sickle cell disease, their families and the people caring for them.
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Less Stress, Better Care: Prepare for Tests, Procedures and Results
· 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM ET · Colin Kloock, MD
Past sessions
April 2025
6:00 PM – 6:45 PM ET Tapering off opioids or benzodiazepines, especially with a chronic condition, can be challenging but is important to avoid withdrawal symptoms and potential negative side effects. It is always best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting to taper off these medications. Here are some general guidelines for titrating down from opioids or benzodiazepines with a chronic condition: 1. Consult with healthcare provider: Before making any changes to your medication regimen, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on how to safely taper off opioids or benzodiazepines while managing your chronic condition. 2. Develop a tapering plan: Work with your healthcare provider to develop a tapering plan that is tailored to your specific needs and medical history. The plan should include a gradual reduction in dosage over a period of time. 3. Monitor symptoms: Keep track of any symptoms or side effects you experience during the tapering process. 6:00 PM – 6:45 PM ET How to Choose a Physician Who Will Fight for You
Presenter
Patrise Holden
When choosing a physician who will advocate for your health and well-being, it is important to consider the following factors: 1. Credentials and Experience: Look for a physician who is board-certified in their specialty and has extensive experience treating patients with similar conditions or concerns. This will ensure that they have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide you with the best possible care. 2. Communication Skills: A good physician should be able to effectively communicate with you and listen to your concerns. They should be open to discussing treatment options, answering any questions you may have, and involving you in the decision-making process regarding your care. 3. Empathy and Compassion: It is important to choose a physician who shows empathy and compassion towards their patients. A caring and understanding attitude can make a big difference in the quality of care you receive. 4. Advocacy: Look for a physician who is willing to advocate for your health and well-being, even if it means going against the status quo or challenging insurance companies.
March 2025
6:00 PM – 6:45 PM ET Psychology vs. Physiology, Which Has the Greatest Effect on Your Health?
Presenter
Patrise Holden
Both psychology and physiology play important roles in influencing overall health and well-being. Physiology refers to the study of how the body functions and the physical processes that occur within the body. This includes things like cellular function, organ systems, and the effects of genetics on health. Physiological factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and sleep can have a significant impact on overall health. For example, a diet high in processed foods and low in nutrients can lead to a variety of health problems, while regular exercise can improve cardiovascular health and overall well-being. On the other hand, psychology focuses on mental processes and behavior, including thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Psychosocial factors such as stress, anxiety, depression, and social relationships can also have a profound impact on health. Chronic stress, for example, has been linked to a variety of health problems such as heart disease, obesity, and mental health disorders. 6:00 PM – 6:45 PM ET Overcoming Loss, Grief, and Missed Life Experiences Due to Chronic Illness
Presenter
Patrise Holden
Chronic illness can bring deep grief—not just for what’s lost, but for what might have been. This session explores how to process loss, honor your emotions, and find healing after missed milestones, relationships, or dreams impacted by long-term illness. 4:00 PM – 4:45 PM ET Individuals with Sickle Cell Disease: Conversation with Physicians and the Clinical Team
Presenter
Mauvareen Beverley
FREE BOOK Giveaway - 4 lucky attendees will receive a Free copy of Dr. Beverley's book "9 Simple Solutions to Achieve Health Equity: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals and Patients"Living with Sickle Cell Disease can be challenging, but with the right support and medical care, individuals can manage their symptoms and lead full lives. It is important for individuals with Sickle Cell Disease to have open and honest conversations with their physicians and the clinical team to ensure they are receiving the best possible care.FREE BOOK Giveaway - 4 lucky attendees will receive a Free copy of Dr. Beverley's book "9 Simple Solutions to Achieve Health Equity: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals and Patients" 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM ET The Power of Consistency: Transform Your Daily Experience
Presenter
Mauvareen Beverley
Consistency is a powerful tool that can transform your daily experience in numerous ways. By committing to consistent behaviors, routines, and habits, you can create a sense of stability, improve your productivity, and achieve your goals more effectively. Consistency also builds trust with yourself and others, as they can rely on you to follow through on your commitments. Consistency is key in building momentum towards your goals. By consistently taking small steps towards your objectives, you can make steady progress and move closer to your desired outcome. This can help you stay motivated and focused, even when faced with challenges or setbacks. Consistency can also improve your overall well-being by creating a sense of predictability and control in your life. By establishing consistent routines and habits, you can reduce stress and anxiety, improve your time management skills, and create a sense of balance and harmony. In addition, consistency can help you build discipline and self-control. By consistently practicing self-discipline in all areas of your life, you can develop strong
February 2025
6:00 PM – 6:45 PM ET Sleep Training Part I: The importance of a good night's sleep
Presenter
Holly Mathews
Join our Zoom session, "Sickle Cell Disease and the Importance of a Good Night's Sleep," where experts will discuss how quality sleep impacts those living with sickle cell disease. Learn how sleep can affect pain management, overall health, and well-being. Gain practical tips for improving your sleep habits and discover why restful nights are key to managing sickle cell effectively. 7:00 PM – 7:45 PM ET Understanding Neuropathy
Presenter
Cassandra Dobson
Join us for an informative session tailored for amyloidosis patients to demystify neuropathy. We'll delve into how amyloidosis can affect the nerves, leading to peripheral neuropathy, and discuss common symptoms like numbness, tingling, and pain. Learn about the underlying causes, diagnostic approaches, and available treatment options. This session aims to empower you with knowledge and practical strategies to manage symptoms effectively and enhance your quality of life. Whether you're newly diagnosed or seeking to better understand your condition, this session offers valuable insights to support your journey.
January 2025
7:00 PM – 7:45 PM ET How to communicate more effectively with your doctor
Presenter
Cassandra Dobson
Your relationship with your doctors and your care team may be one of your most important relationships. Like any successful relationship, effective communications is critical for both short and long term success. In this session we will be discussing how effective communications can improve both morbidity (symptoms) and mortality (outcome). 7:00 PM – 7:45 PM ET The challenges of being a mother living with Sickle Cell Disease
Presenter
Cassandra Dobson
Sickle Cell Disease affects every part of a mother’s life, from personal health struggles to managing responsibilities at home. In this session, we’ll share experiences, tips, and support strategies. Join us as we explore how to balance motherhood with self-care, build resilience, and foster a network of understanding. Together, we’ll discover new ways to thrive despite obstacles. Join us now! 8:30 PM – 9:15 PM ET How to explain SCD to people who have no idea.
Presenter
Cassandra Dobson
Join our Zoom session, "How to Explain Sickle Cell Disease to People Who Don’t Know About It," where we’ll provide tips on effectively communicating what SCD is, how it impacts daily life, and common misconceptions. Whether you're speaking to friends, coworkers, or the public, this session will help you raise awareness and advocate with confidence. 7:00 PM – 7:45 PM ET Know Your Pain
Presenter
Cassandra Dobson
Join our insightful Zoom session, "Know Your Pain," where we'll help you identify the source of your pain and explore tailored solutions for relief. Medical experts will guide you through understanding different types of pain, their causes, and how to effectively manage them. Whether chronic or acute, this session will provide you with tools to address your pain and improve your quality of life.