Community & Peer Support
The American Chronic Pain Association (ACPA) offers support groups in Detroit and Grand Rapids. You can find more information and connect with local groups through their website. They also have great resources for pain management here!
MyChronicPainTeam
A social network for people with chronic pain to share experiences and resources.
CNS Healthcare Peer Support Services for SE Michigan
Offers peer-led support groups, wellness recovery action programs (WRAP, WHAM), warmline access, and certified peer support for those dealing with mental health and chronic conditions.
A normalizing, storytelling platform and community for those living with health conditions. They also have a Group Directory to search for condition-specific pages!
Non-profit hosting online support communities focused on rare diseases and chronic illness.
More Resources
Dr. Bessel van der Kolk
Author of The Body Keeps the Score, his work explores trauma’s impact on the body and mind, emphasizing healing beyond talk therapy.
Dr. Gabor Maté
Known for his compassionate approach to addiction, trauma, and chronic illness, Dr. Maté offers insights on how emotional wellbeing influences physical health.
Toni Bernhard, JD
Author of How to Be Sick, Bernhard writes from personal experience navigating chronic illness with mindfulness and resilience.
The Center for Mind-Body Medicine
Offers training and resources integrating mind-body techniques for healing trauma, stress, and chronic conditions.
Chronic Illness Inclusion Project
Provides educational materials emphasizing intersectionality, disability justice, and inclusive approaches to chronic health.