Living with SD isn’t always easy, but we are here to help

The unexpected diagnosis of spasmodic dysphonia probably threw your life out of balance. It likely impacted you emotionally, professionally, and in your personal relationships. There’s no doubt that you felt at least once or twice or a million times, that things were worse for you. But there is a theme from the folks with SD who participate and contribute to our ommunity, they all express some sort of acceptance of their SD. And that acceptance forces them to think differently about the events and circumstances of their lives.

“In losing a piece of myself, I found a better me”. – Kevin

You are thinking about your SD way more then anyone you encounter. So focus on self-love and think about this advice.

• Find and make great friends. There is a saying, “friends are the family you choose.” The good ones will offer support and accept you just the way you are.
• Focus on your strengths not your weaknesses. Don’t dwell on what you cannot do, think about what you can and enjoy doing, then do it more often. Imagine the confidence you’ll build when you’re repeatedly successful.
• Don’t measure yourself against anything else, not even YOU before YOU had SD. The problem with measurements is that there’s always some that fall below the baseline. Don’t compare, it’s your normal that all that matters.
• Don’t be so hard on yourself. You are already an extremely strong person. You solve problems most people cannot, you know how to adapt, you know how to live with SD.
• Connect with people. People will be curious about your voice, even if they do not say anything. Once you tell them about your disorder, they will admire you, listen more closely when you speak, and whether you realize it or not, you will become an inspiration.
• Find a supportive community. There are support groups and area contact leaders who are ready to help. Plus, you can attend virtual meetings.  
• Volunteer and advocate, this is how acceptance happens.

Embracing something can lead to growth, helping you experience life in a new way, with a new perspective, that can transform your life in ways you never thought possible.

“SD changes your life. It never stops being a challenge, but it also never stops being a lesson, we aren’t defined by our voice. What we say, how we reach out, and who we are in our relationships are what matter.” – Jean