Where to Find Support Groups for Hashimoto’s Disease and Hypothyroidism
Key takeaways:
Hypothyroidism is often caused by Hashimoto’s disease. It affects millions of Americans, many of them undiagnosed.
People living with hypothyroidism can find support and advice from experts and advocates. This extra support can go a long way in your treatment journey.
Health apps can be a great way to track your thyroid health. And they can help you learn more about what your body needs while living with hypothyroidism.
Hypothyroidism is a common disease where the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone for the body. As a result, people might experience symptoms such as weight gain and fatigue. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder. And it is a leading cause for hypothyroidism.
An estimated 10% of Americans live with hyperthyroidism — half of them undiagnosed. Finding the right medication and guidance from a medical professional can help you manage your symptoms.
But there are other tools available to you, too. Apps, online support groups, and advocates can help you become more informed about your condition. And they can help you take control of your lifestyle.
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Here are some leading experts on hypothyroidism that you may find helpful. And, these reliable health apps and online support groups could make it easier to live with hypothyroidism.
Hypothyroidism experts and advocates
These individuals can be a great source of guidance and inspiration for those with thyroid disorders. You can read their books, follow them on social media, and feel less alone.
Dr. Izabella Wentz
Dr. Wentz received her PharmD degree from the Midwestern University Chicago College of Pharmacy at just 23 years old. She has dedicated her life to thyroid research and education. She is a New York Times No. 1 bestselling author and an expert in clinical pharmacology.
Her website states that Dr. Wentz “believes that every thyroid patient should have access to proper diagnosis, appropriate medication management, and education about lifestyle interventions.”
You can find Dr. Wentz on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
Rachel Hill
Rachel Hill is a thyroid patient advocate and an award-winning writer, blogger, speaker, and author. Her website, The Invisible Hypothyroidism, collects her thyroid advocacy work. There you’ll find her writing, podcast contributions, and a Facebook support group. Hill has worked with the BBC, Yahoo, MSN, and more.
You can find Rachel on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
Dana Trentini
Dana Trentini was diagnosed with hypothyroidism in 2006 following the birth of her first son. She had no idea the disease could affect her life so drastically. Trentini passionately communicates that anyone living with hypothyroidism is not alone. She believes that finding connection through the disease gives individuals power over their lives again.
Her website Hypothyroid Mom has been featured in publications such as The Wall Street Journal and The Atlantic. Trentini also teamed up with Mary Shomon to write the book “Your Healthy Pregnancy With Thyroid Disease.”
You can find Dana on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
Mary Shomon
Mary Shomon was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s in 1995. She has been an advocate for thyroid awareness ever since. On her website, Shomon is described as a “New York Times bestselling author, and one of the key thyroid and hormonal health activists in the world.”
Her advocacy has been featured in many major publications, on the radio, and online. Shomon has also written several books, including “The Menopause Thyroid Solution.”
You can find Mary on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
Denise Roguz
It took Denise Roguz 17 years and 20 different doctors before she was diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Now, she’s made it her mission to advocate for “personalized thyroid care for optimal wellness.” On her websiteThyroidChange, Roguz provides resources like articles and lists of support groups.
You can find Denise on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
Hypothyroidism apps
Mobile apps are a great way to help you track your symptoms and learn more about your health. Try these to get started.
Thyroid Tracker 2 app
The Thyroid Tracker app allows you to document lots of information, including:
Your thyroid symptoms
Healthcare appointments
Vital statistics
Supplements
Test results
Side effects
The updated version even includes a “trending and forecasting” module. This feature helps you identify what habits and actions could trigger symptoms. The goal is to help you learn more about the disease and how to create a manageable lifestyle.
You can download the app for iPad and iPhone or Android for $4.99.
Paloma: Thyroid Hormone Health
The Paloma Health app takes a holistic approach to thyroid wellness. The app includes diet plans and learning modules to teach you more about the condition. It also offers:
At-home thyroid test kits
Consultations with doctors and nutritionists
In-app messaging with a Paloma care manager
Symptom tracking
Recipes that support thyroid health
Reminders to help you stay on track with your thyroid medication
A library of educational articles
Online support groups for hypothyroidism
Support groups can be a great way to find community and meet people with similar struggles. For even more options, including groups based outside of the U.S., check out Denise Roguz’s resource page.
Thyroid Family
This Facebook group is for people with hypothyroidism. Ask questions, seek advice, gain support, or share personal experiences. Posts help users manage thyroid conditions while staying informed with tips and support. Topics discussed include everything from digestive health to meditation and prescription medication information.
Thyroid Support Group (TSG)
This Facebook group has over 20,000 members who seek help and support for thyroid disorders. TSG connects members by providing information, community, and support. You’ll find real-life stories, motivation for building healthy habits, help with sleep hygiene, and much more.
Hashimoto’s 411
This Facebook group is for people living with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Their discussion focuses on lifestyle changes, like giving up gluten. You’ll also find posts exploring supplements, sleep, exercise, stress management, and more.
ThyroidBoards
These thyroid forums were created in 2007. Now, they’re used by over 9,000 members to discuss experiences with thyroid diseases. You can start your own discussion after becoming a member. Or, you can browse through 120,000 posts on topics like diet, supplements, surgery, and lab results. There’s even an open chat forum where members can chat about topics unrelated to thyroid health.
The bottom line
Millions of Americans live with hyperthyroidism. This disease, while manageable, can be tough to take care of. So, it’s important to find support and learn to advocate for your personal health needs. Thankfully, there are people who have made it their life’s mission to provide support and education for those living with hypothyroidism or Hasimoto’s disease. You can use these resources to help you feel empowered as you work with your provider on creating the appropriate treatment for your hypothyroidism.
Why trust our experts?
References
Chiovato, L., et al. (2019). Hypothyroidism in context: Where we’ve been and where we’re going. Advances in Therapy.
Hashimoto’s 411. (n.d.). Hashimoto’s 411: Read before joining. Facebook.
National Cancer Institute. (n.d.). Thyroid gland.
Roguz, D. (n.d.). Thyroid patient forums. Thyroid Change.
