Health Information for Patients and Families
Visit the resource centers at our Cambridge and Whidden Hospital campuses
Our libraries are a quiet, comfortable place where patients and their family can research their illness and learn more about their particular condition. If you or someone close to you receives a new diagnosis, we encourage you to visit the Patient & Family Resource Centers to gather information that will help you:
- Understand the diagnosis
- Understand possible treatment options
- Make informed decisions
- Better communicate with the health care team
Our librarians also provide MyCHArt training. We will teach you how to access your personal health care record, request medical advice and refill prescriptions from any computer using MyChart.
If you are unable to visit the center in person, our librarians are happy to answer your questions by email, resourcecenter@challiance.org or phone, 617-394-7723.
Patient Resources By Topic
Medical Reference
American Medical Association's Doctor Finder
DoctorFinder provides basic professional information on almost every licensed physician in the United States.
Cleveland Clinic
Are you managing a chronic disease or condition? Or just want to live healthy? Access nearly 5,000 health articles, videos and tools.
Family Doctor
Health Information for the whole family.
Healthfinder
An encyclopedia of over 1,600 health topics from the most trusted sources.
HealthNet
Consumer health resources for Massachusetts residents.
InteliHealth
Aetna InteliHealth's mission is to empower people with trusted solutions for healthier lives.
Lab Tests Online
Designed to help you better understand lab tests, whether part of routine care or in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad range of conditions.
MA Department of Public Health
Covers food & nutrition, family planning, wellness, diseases, mental health, substance abuse, and insurance (including MassHealth.)
MA Physician Profiles
The Massachusetts "Physician Profiles" program helps residents make the right health care decisions.
Mayo Clinic
More than 3,300 physicians, scientists and researchers from Mayo Clinic share their expertise on general wellness tips and specific conditions
MedicineNet
An online, easy-to-read, in-depth, authoritative medical information site.
MedlinePlus
MedlinePlus provides authoritative medical information, patient tutorials, health news and a medical encyclopedia.
MA Health Care Options
Updates about any new rules or regulations affecting health care quality and cost.
Net Wellness
A non-profit site devoted to health information.
NOAH
NOAH provides high quality health information. (English and Spanish)
Books:
The American Medical Association Complete Guide to Men's Health
A thorough guide for keeping a man's body healthy, making sense of his system, and understanding specific health concerns.
American Medical Association's Complete Guide to Women's Health
A full-color atlas of the body blends with numerous charts and photos to provide one of the most comprehensive women's health references available to the general public.
The American Medical Association Complete Guide to Your Children's Health
Provides parents with a comprehensive look at normal childhood development patterns, safety concerns, and childhood illness, along with an easy-to-read encyclopedia on childhood diseases.
The American Medical Association Guide to Talking with Your Doctor
This easy-to-understand book demystifies the relationship between patient and doctor and guides you in building an ongoing dialogue.
The American Medical Association Encyclopedia of Medicine
Covers thousands of medical terms from the common cold to the Lyme Disease,along with hundreds of surgical procedures, tests, drugs and treatments.
Making Informed Medical Decisions by Nancy Oster , Lucy Thomas and Darol Joseff
Making Informed Medical Decisions acts as a friendly reference librarian in your search for the latest treatments or medical advice.
The Mayo Clinic Guide to Self-Care
Provides reliable, easy-to-understand information on more than 150 common medical conditions, and issues relating to health.
The Mayo Clinic Family Health Book
Covers infancy to old age in five sections: Injuries & Symptoms; Disorders; Tests and Treatments; Adults; Pregnancy & Children.
The Merck Manual of Medical Information by Mark H. Beers
This Home Edition of The Merck Manual offers access to the same data contained in the physician's version in a reader-friendly format.
Physician's Desk Reference Family Guide to Prescription Drugs
The Physicians' Desk Reference (PDR) rewritten in language anyone can understand.
The Wellness Book by Howard Benson
Health care tips to help readers gain control over their own well-being.
Woman's Concise Guide to Common Medical Tests by Michele C. Moore and Caroline M. De Costa
Uses recommendations of the U.S. Preventative Health Services Task to describe and explain screening tests for STDs and other communicable diseases, diabetes, thyroid disease, bone loss, various genetic tests, pregnancy, and cancer (including breast, colon, and skin).
Allergy & Asthma
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology
Resources include: Find a Doctor, AAAAI Research, Kids Resources, Parent Resources and treatments (English & Spanish).
American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology
Resources include: Advice from your Allergist, Information on Asthma screening and patient support (English & Spanish).
Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America
Resources include: "Ask the Allergist" and "Find a Support Group" (English & Spanish).
Boston Urban Asthma Coalition
BUAC Promotes asthma-related collaboration between organizations and residents.
New England Asthma Regional Council
NEARC hopes to reduce the impact of asthma through collaborations of health, housing, education, and environmental organizations.
Books:
The Children's Hospital Guide to Asthma by Julian Lewis Allen
In this important guide, the experts at the top-ranked children's hospital in the United States clearly explain what asthma is and how parents, caregivers, and young patients can manage asthma successfully.
The Family Guide to Asthma and Allergies from The American Lung Association
The essential aid in preventing and treating asthma. It identifies common triggers, explains how to allergy-proof your home, and reviews unconventional testing and treatments.
The Parents Guide to Food Allergies by Marianne Barber
Addresses in detail the issues kids and their families face, including vital information about handling emergencies, stocking a kitchen with safe, appealing foods, helping a child adjust easily in school, dealing with the stress, eating in restaurants and traveling.
Taking Charge of Your Child's Allergies by M. Eric Gershwin
Explains symptoms, diagnoses, triggers, and treatments (at home and by the doctor), and they forthrightly discuss medications and therapies that are not recommended for children. Also offers suggestions on managing a child's condition on a daily basis.
ALS: Amyotrophic Lateral
ALS Association
Informing patients, families and caregivers about living with ALS and providing support for people affected by the disease.
ALS Open Forum / Chat
The ALS forum is an all-volunteer driven resource provided free of charge to help anyone directly or indirectly affected by ALS and MND (also known as Lou Gehrig's disease).
ALS Therapy Development Institute
Focused on developing therapeutics that stop ALS as soon as possible, as well as validate potential therapeutics.
MedlinePlus: ALS
Resources include: Diagnosis/Symptoms, Nutrition, Disease Management, Clinical Trials, and Research (English & Spanish).
Alternative & Complementary Medicine
Acupuncture from NCCAM
Includes information about Acupuncture for Pain, Knee Osteoarthritis, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Back Pain, and Fibromyalgia.
Alternative Medicine Resources
Bastyr University Complementary & Alternative Medicine links
Andrew Weil
A free online resource for integrative medicine.
Global Initiative for Traditional Systems of Health
The Global Initiative for Traditional Systems builds partnerships between health practitioners, scientists, educators and decision-makers.
Longwood Herbal Task Force
The LHTF was organized by faculty, staff and students from Children's Hospital, the Mass College of Pharmacy and the Dana Farber Cancer Institute to teach about herbs and dietary supplements.
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine
The Federal Government's lead agency for scientific research on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).
NIH: Dietary Supplements
To strengthen understanding of dietary supplements by evaluating scientific information, supporting research, and educating the public.
Rosenthal Center for Complementary and Alternative Information
The Richard and Hinda Rosenthal Center bridges between diverse therapeutic traditions and modern medicine.
Sloan-Kettering: Herbs, Botanicals & Other Products
This site provides a clinical summary for each agent and details about constituents, adverse effects, interactions, and potential benefits or problems.
Understanding Chinese Medicine
Their goals are to help you become more familiar with the systems of medicine and healing that come to us from the East.
Books:
American Cancer Society's Complementary & Alternative Cancer Methods Handbook
Features information on herbs, vitamins, minerals, diet, manual healing, alternative treatment methods, safety and regulatory issues, insurance coverage, and ACS guidelines for using complementary and alternative methods.
The Mayo Clinic Book of Alternative Medicine
The Mayo Clinic Book of Alternative Medicine is an illustrated, accessible guide to understanding what works and what doesn't in the world of complementary and alternative medicine, and how to put this information to use in your everyday life.
Natural Medicine for Heart Disease by Glenn S. Rothfeld and Suzanne Levert
Demonstrates how Chinese medicine, Ayurvedic medicine, chiropractic, aromatherapy, and homeopathic programs can be used in conjunction with regular medical treatments.
Tyler's Honest Herbal by Steven Foster and Virginia M Tyler
Originally published as The Honest Herbal in 1982, Tyler's Honest Herbal is still the classic herbal guide for consumers and health practitioners alike, fully referenced with the latest peer-reviewed scientific data.
The Wellness Book by Howard Benson
Reflects the cutting edge of health care, giving you the opportunity to gain more control over prevention and treatment of a number of illnesses.
Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer's Association
To eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health (Available in Arabic, Bosnian, Chinese, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish & Vietnamese ).
Family Caregiver Alliance
Founded in 1977, Family Caregiver Alliance was the first community-based nonprofit organization in the country to address the needs of families and friends providing long-term care at home. Long recognized as a pioneer in health services, FCA now offers programs at national, state and local levels to support and sustain caregivers.
Alzheimer's Disease Education & Referral Center
The Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center Web site will help you find current, comprehensive Alzheimer's disease (AD) information and resources from the National Institute on Aging (NIA).
MedlinePlus: Alzheimer's Disease
Information, Links and Resources from MedlinePlus (Arabic, Bosnian, Chinese, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Ukrainian & Vietnamese).
NIH: Alzheimer's Disease
Information, Links and Resources from the National Institute of Health
Book:
The 36 Hour Day by Nancy L. Mace and Peter V. Rabins
The classic family guide to caring for persons with Alzheimer's disease, related dementia, and memory loss in later life.
Arthritis
American College of Rheumatology
In the Patient resources section of the ACR Web site, you'll find a wealth of information developed just for you and your family.
Arthritis Foundation
The foundation helps people take control of arthritis by providing public health education; pursuing public policy and legislation; and conducting evidence-based programs to improve the quality of life for those living with arthritis.
Arthritis Society of Canada
The Arthritis Society is Canada's only not-for-profit organization devoted solely to funding and promoting arthritis research, programs and patient care.
Books:
Arthritis Foundation: Alternative Treatments for Arthritis by Dorothy Foltz-Gray
Explore more than 100 natural treatments for arthritis including: glucosamine, chondroitin, boswellia, SAM-e, shark cartilage, Chinese medicine, Alexander technique, Rolfing, Craniosacral Therapy and more.
Arthritis Foundation: Guide to Managing Your Arthritis by Mary Anne Dunkin
Covers the major forms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, lupus, bursitis, along with medications, surgery and recovery, exercises, pain, mobility, herbs, supplements, and alternative and complementary therapies.
Arthritis Foundation: Guide to Pain Management by Susan Bernstein
Pain suffers will discover the newest, most effective treatments for chronic pain caused by arthritis, fibromyalgia and back problems --from the latest drugs and medical devices to natural, noninvasive therapies.
Arthritis Helpbook by Kate Lorig
Offering a practical program to help people with arthritis and fibromyalgia manage their conditions, reduce pain and increase dexterity.
Arthritis Sourcebook by Amy L. & Ed Sutton
Compilation of articles and reviews related to arthritis.
Cancer
American Cancer Society
Here you'll find medical information, treatment decision tools, survivors' experiences and support. (English & Spanish).
American Institute for Cancer Research
The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) helps people make choices that reduce their chances of developing cancer.
Association of Cancer Online Resources
A unique collection of online communities designed to provide timely and accurate information in a supportive environment.
Cancer.gov
The National Cancer Institute's Web site provides comprehensive research-based information arranged by News, Clinical Trials, Statistics, and Research & Funding.
Cancer.net
Oncologist-approved cancer information.
Cancer Support Community
To ensure that people impacted by cancer are sustained by community.
Colon Cancer Alliance
First-hand experience of people who have been touched by cancer.
Inspire Health
Canada's foremost integrated cancer care centre.
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society provides support and guidance to patients and health professionals.
National Cancer Institute
Comprehensive descriptions of our research and clinical trials.
National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship
They believe that access to accurate patient information is key to demanding and receiving quality cancer care.
National Comprehensive Cancer Network
Provides information to help make treatment decisions, locate financial assistance, find insurance, and more
National Ovarian Cancer Coalition
NOCC provides support to patients survivors, and caregivers.
OncoLink
OncoLink was founded by Penn cancer specialists with a mission to help patients and families get accurate cancer-related information at no charge.
Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation
The world's largest grassroots network of breast cancer activists.
The Wellness Community
Community for people impacted by cancer.
Books:
American Cancer Society's Complementary & Alternative Cancer Methods Handbook
Features information about herbs, vitamins, minerals, diet, manual healing, alternative treatment methods, safety and regulatory issues, insurance coverage, and ACS guidelines for using complementary and alternative methods.
American Cancer Society's Complete Guide to Colorectal Cancer
Provides up-to-date, essential information, including prevention, detection, diagnosis, treatment options, complementary and alternative therapies, coping, care giving, and living well with cancer.
American Cancer Society's Complete Guide to Prostate Cancer
Covers risk, prevention, early detection and available treatment options, highlighted by personal stories from people affected by prostate cancer.
American Cancer Society's Guide to Cancer Drugs
This complete reference includes side effects and precautions for over 200 cancer-related medicines, explanations of the latest cancer drugs, how drugs are administered and taken, and a glossary of cancer treatment terms.
American Cancer Society's Informed Decisions
Explains the tests, signs and symptoms, treatments, survival prospects, and special needs associated with different cancers.
Cancer: The Facts by Michael Whitehouse, Maurice Slevin, and José Carreras
Early chapters give an understanding of the process of cancer and current thinking about investigation and treatment, while later chapters deal with specific cancers, alternative treatments and the importance of psychological support.
Dr. Patrick Walsh's Guide to Surviving Prostate Cancer by Patrick C. Walsh and Janet Farrar Worthington
What causes prostate cancer- risk factors, including heredity, diet, and environment.
Everyone's Guide to Cancer Therapy by Margaret Tempero and Sean Mulvihill
This guide offers an understanding of current diagnosis and treatment, management, supportive care, and developments in assessment. The authors answer questions about everything from early detection and stages to risk factors and genetics.
Mayo Clinic Guide to Women's Cancers
This book on breast and gynecologic cancers contains the best information available on risk factors, prevention strategies, early detection, the latest advances in treatment, and tools for coping with treatment and recovery.
My Book for Kids with Cansur by Jason Gaes
Young Jason copes with Burkitt's lymphoma, relates how his cancer was discovered, and advises on operations, radiation and chemotherapy.
A Woman's Decision by Karen Berger and John Bostwick III
A sensitive and authoritative book that will help women assess their options, familiarize themselves with the techniques used in treating breast cancer, and prepare themselves for what to expect from reconstructive surgery.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Chronic Syndrome Support Association
The Chronic Syndrome Support Association educates the general population and health-care professionals about ongoing research, and research that needs to be done, on Chronic Immunological and Neurological Disorders.
CDC: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Provides evidence-based information concerning CFS.
CFIDS Association of America
Detailed information about CFS symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and research.
National Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia Association
Directory of resources for Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia.
Mayo Clinic: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Resources include: CFS symptoms, causes, complications, alternative treatments and support.
MedlinePlus: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Resources include: CFS symptoms, diagnosis, alternative therapy, coping, disease management and related issues
Book:
Chronic Illness Workbook by Patricia Fennell
A comprehensive long-term model for navigating the physical, psychological, and social effects of chronic illness. Offers help for sufferers of chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, Graves' disease, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and others.
Diabetes
CDC: Diabetes
Diabetes facts: including research, statistics, and publications.
Joslin Diabetes Center
Resources include articles about nutrition, physical activity, how to care for yourself when you are ill, how to avoid complications and more..
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
Compassionate support and practical suggestions from JDRF volunteers as well as answers to the most frequently asked questions about type 1 diabetes.
National Diabetes Education Program
Together, NDEP and partners promote two public health campaigns: one for people with diabetes and the other for people at risk of diabetes.
National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse
An information dissemination service of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).
Books:
American Dietetic Association Complete Guide to Diabetes
An overview of Diabetes, with discussion of causes and effects of Type I, Type II and gestational diabetes along with a glossary, an appendix on self-monitoring and injection techniques and a list of resources and organizations.
Joslin Guide to Diabetes by Richard S. Beaser and Amy P. Campbell
The Joslin Guide to Diabetes explains every aspect of diabetes and self-management, including meal planning, monitoring blood glucose, administering insulin, treating high and low blood glucose, and successfully fitting diabetes into your lifestyle.
Drugs / Medications
Anesthesia FAQs
Before going under for surgery, you probably have a lot of questions, even if you don't ask them. The American Society of Anesthesiologists' FAQ's were written to answer questions you have about anesthesia prior to or after your surgery. These are questions patients asked their anesthesiologist that helped them avoid surgical risks.
Internet Drug Index
Resources include: A-Z list of individual medications, pill identifier, guide to supplements and a dictionary.
PDR Health
The PDRhealth site offers consumer-friendly explanations of disease states and conditions as well as the safe and effective use of prescription and non-prescription drugs as well as herbal medicines.
Eating Disorders
Eating Disorders Coalition
EDC's mission is to advance recognition of eating disorders as a public health priority, and promote improved access to care.
MA Eating Disorders Association
MEDA is dedicated to the prevention and treatment of eating disorders through educational awareness and early detection.
MedlinePlus: Eating Disorders
General information and links to more resources.
Mirror Mirror
They chose to use the phrase "Mirror, mirror on the wall" because they first heard it used in a fairy tale. Fairy tales are not real. When you look in the mirror, you are seeing what your eating disorder wants you to see, you are not seeing the true picture.
National Eating Disorders Association
NEDA is dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by eating disorders.
Book:
Demystifying Anorexia Nervosa by Alexander R Lucas
Dr. Alexander Lucas draws on 40 years of experience mostly at the Mayo Clinic to offer clear guidance and advice on how to overcome anorexia nervosa.
Environmental Safety
Consumer Product Safety Commission
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from thousands of types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction.
Haz-Map
Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases.
Household Products Database
What's under your kitchen sink, in your garage, in your bathroom, and on the shelves in your laundry room? Learn more about what's in these products, about potential health effects, and about safety and handling.
HUD: Healthy Homes
HUD believes our communities should make homes available to families that are affordable and healthy. "Healthy Homes" is a century-old concept that promotes safe, decent, and sanitary housing as a means for preventing disease and injury.
Poison Control and Prevention
The Regional Center for Poison Control and Prevention is a not-for-profit organization that provides assistance and expertise in the medical diagnosis, management and prevention of poisonings involving the people of Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
Toxnet
Databases on toxicology, hazardous chemicals, environmental health, and toxic releases.
Epilepsy
Centers for Disease Control: Epilepsy
Provides evidence-based CDC information concerning epilepsy.
Epilepsy Foundation
The most comprehensive information about epilepsy and seizures.
Mayo Clinic: Epilepsy
Resources include: Epilepsy symptoms, complications, treatments, research and support from the Mayo Clinic.
MedlinePlus: Epilepsy
General information and links about epilepsy symptoms, diagnosis, alternative therapy, management and related issues
Epilepsy Therapy project
The Epilepsy Therapy Project brings together financial resources, scientific insights and business expertise from leading academic and commercial industry participants.
Fibromyalgia
Centers for Disease Control: Fibromyalgia
Evidence-based information and statistics on Fibromyalgia.
Mayo Clinic: Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia causes, symptoms, complications, and treatment information from the Mayo Clinic.
MedlinePlus: Fibromyalgia
Directory of resources for Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia.
National Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia Association
Directory of resources for Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia.
Books:
Chronic Illness Workbook by Patricia Fennell
Patricia Fennell identifies four phases of chronic illness and describes skills to manage each phase. Offers help for sufferers of chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, Graves' disease, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and more.
Good Living with Fibromyalgia from The Arthritis Foundation
Covers the latest scientific research about fibromyalgia, and tips for dealing with daily pain, depression, discomfort, and fatigue.
Heart Disease
My Heart Central
Heart Disease resources designed around three main areas: finding information, managing your condition, and connecting with others managing heart conditions.
American Heart Association
Our mission is to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. That single purpose drives all we do.
WomenHeart: National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease
WomenHeart advocates for equal access to quality care and provides information and resources to help women take charge of their heart health.
Yale Heart Book (eBook)
In clear, simple language, this book covers the entire spectrum of cardiovascular disease.
Books:
100 Questions & Answers about Heart Attack & Related Problems by Edward K. Chung, MD
Draws upon decades of clinical experience to offer practical advice about heart attack prevention, treatment options and much more.
Cardiac Recovery Handbook: Complete Guide to Life After Heart Attack by Paul Kligfield, M.D.,
Covers all aspects of cardiac recovery including medications and surgical options, hospitalization, rehabilitation, diet and exercise.
Harvard Medical School Guide to Lowering Your Blood Pressure by Aggie Casey and Herbert Benson
A program to manage hypertension, reduce stress, improve fitness and get more enjoyment out of life.
Harvard Medical School Guide to Lowering Your Cholesterol by Mason Freeman
What does it really mean when your doctor tells you that your cholesterol levels are high, and what should you do about it?
Healthy Heart Handbook for Women by The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute
An owner's manual for your heart, from the National Institute of Health heart research team, with practical suggestions for reducing heart-related problems.
Her Healthy Heart by Linda Ojeda
Ojeda goes beyond the eat-low-fat-and-exercise advice to nutrients, supplements, stress, spirituality, and unhealthy vs. heart-healthy behavior.
Hypertension Sourcebook by Dawn D. Matthews
Basic information about the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of high blood pressure
Mayo Clinic Heart Book
Current information on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cardiovascular disease.
Natural Medicine for Heart Disease by Glenn S. Rothfeld
Alternative methods for prevention of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, stroke, chest pain, and other circulatory problems.
Hepatitis
Centers for Disease Control: Hepatitis
Evidence-based information about Hepatitis A, B & C from the Centers for Disease Control.
Hepatitis Foundation
Hepatitis Foundation International (HFI) continues to work hard to provide up to date information and motivational messages for patients, educators, and the healthcare community.
Mayo Clinic: Hepatitis A, B & C
Resources include: Causes, symptoms, complications, and treatment information for Hepatitis A, B & C, from the Mayo Clinic.
MedlinePlus: Hepatitis
General information and links to more resources.
National Institute of Health: Hepatitis
What you need to know about Hepatitis, including treatment options and disease management
Lupus
Centers for Disease Control: Lupus
The Evidence-based information about Lupus
Lupus Foundation
The Lupus Foundation of America, Inc. (LFA) is the foremost national nonprofit voluntary health organization dedicated to finding the causes of and cure for lupus and providing support, services and medically sound information and programs for people with lupus, their families, physicians, and other health professionals.
Mayo Clinic: Lupus
Causes, symptoms, complications, and treatment information for Lupus, from the Mayo Clinic.
MedlinePlus: Lupus
General information and links to more resources.
Book:
The Lupus Book: A Guide for Patients and Their Families by Daniel J. Wallace
In a lay companion to the renowned Dubois' Lupus Erythematosus, Wallace thoroughly explains the body's immunological processes and the causes, diagnosis, management, prognosis, and risks of lupus.
Mental Health
American Association of Suicidology
AAS is a leader in the advancement of scientific efforts in suicide prevention through research, education and training, and survivor support services.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Investing in groundbreaking research, new educational campaigns, innovative demonstration projects and critical policy work.
American Psychological Association Help Center
APA's Psychology Help Center is an online consumer resource featuring articles and information related to psychological issues.
Anxiety Disorders Association of America
The Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA) is solely dedicated to informing the public that anxiety disorders are real, serious, and treatable.
Children & Adolescent Bipolar Foundation
The Child & Adolescent Bipolar Foundation improves the lives of families raising children with bipolar disorder and related conditions.
David Baldwin's Trauma Information Pages
These Trauma Pages focus primarily on emotional trauma and traumatic stress, whether following individual traumatic experience(s) or a large-scale disaster.
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) fosters understanding about the impact and management of these illnesses by providing information.
Mental Health America
MHA works to inform, advocate and enable access to quality behavioral health services for all Americans.
NAMI: National Alliance for the Mentally Ill
NAMI is focused on educating America about mental illness and offering resources to those in need.
National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
The Center aims to help U.S. Veterans and others through research, education, and training on trauma and PTSD.
National Institute of Mental Health
Visit the NIMH Publications Page for booklets, fact sheets, and easy-to-read materials. [English, Spanish.]
Schizophrenia.com
Schizophrenia.com is a non-profit web community providing information, support and education to anyone impacted by schizophrenia.
Books:
100 Questions & Answers about Panic Disorder by Carol W. Berman, MD
Practical answers to your questions about panic disorder, coping with panic attacks, sources of support, and much more.
Allies in Healing by Laura Davis
Laura Davis offers practical advice and encouragement to help partners of sexual abuse survivors be supportive while tending to their own needs.
Caring for the Mind by Dianne Hales and Robert E. Hales
Fully covers the field of mental health, including discussions of major disorders and a range of treatments, from talking therapy to medication and electroshock.
Courage to Heal by Laura Davis
This book describes the effects of sexual abuse, the stages survivors pass through, and practical guidance on self-defeating behaviors.
Courage to Heal Workbook by Laura Davis
In this groundbreaking companion to The Courage to Heal, Laura Davis offers an in-depth workbook for healing the effects of child sexual abuse.
Dana Guide to Brain Health by Floyd E. Bloom, M. Flint Beal and David J. Kupfer
A home medical reference for researching illnesses, symptoms, steps to diagnosis and treatment options.
Delivered from Distraction by Edward M. Hallowell M.D. and John J. Ratey M.D.
Hallowell and Ratey combine their own clinical observations with the latest research to paint a much more complex and, positive picture of ADD.
Demystifying Anorexia Nervosa by Alexander R Lucas
Dr. Alexander Lucas draws on 40 years of experience mostly at the Mayo Clinic to offer guidance and advice.
Depression Sourcebook Edited by Sandra J. Judd
Covers unipolar depression, bipolar depression, seasonal affective disorder, postpartum depression and other depressive disorders.
Depression Workbook by Mary Ellen Copeland and Matthew McKay
Exercises to teach coping skills, build a support system, increase self-esteem, avoid mood swings, and use relaxation, diet, and exercise to stabilize moods.
Learned Optimism by Martin Seligman
"Pessimism is escapable," asserts Seligman, by learning a new set of cognitive skills you can take charge, resist depression, and make yourself feel better.
Letting Go of Shame by Ronald Potter-Efron and Patricia Potter-Efron
Letting Go of Shame explains what shame is and offers a personalized action plan to identify feelings of shame and build self-esteem.
Listening to Prozac by Peter D. Kramer
Kramer found that Prozac gave users greater feelings of self-worth, less sensitivity to social rejection, and a greater willingness to take risks.
Recovering from Depression by Mary Ellen Copeland and Stuart Copans
Interactive workbook for teens, explores ways to deal with suicidal thoughts, change negative behaviors, reach out to friends and family, reduce stress, avoid substance abuse, solve problems, recognize triggers of depression, and focus on dreams and goals.
Stress of Life by Hans Selye
Describes the foundation of 'biologic stress' and the neuroendocrine response of the body to exposure to stressors.
Victims no Longer by Mike Lew
The first book written specifically for male sexual abuse survivors offers guidance for healing.
What Every Patient, Family, Friend and Caregiver Needs to Know by Richard W. Roukema
Caring for a person with mental illness requires knowledge, skill,understanding, and strength
When Someone You Love Has a Mental Illness by Rebecca Woolis
A resource for the millions of parents, siblings, and friends of people with mental illness, as well as professionals in the field.
Women & Self-Esteem by Linda Tschirhart Sanford and Mary Ellen Donovan
Examines how women's harmful attitudes about themselves are shaped and provides exercises to dispel fears of inadequacies.
Multiple Sclerosis
Mayo Clinic: Multiple Sclerosis
Basics, treatment information and more from the Mayo Clinic.
MedlinePlus: Multiple Sclerosis
Basics, treatment information and links to other sites.
Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation provides a comprehensive approach to helping people with MS maintain their health and well-being.
National Multiple Sclerosis Society
The National MS Society is a collective of passionate individuals who want to do something about MS now.
National Institute of Health: Multiple Sclerosis
Resources include: Diagnosis, treatment information and links to other sites.
Nutrition
American Dietetic Association
The American Dietetic Association is the world's largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. ADA is committed to improving the nation's health and advancing the profession of dietetics through research, education and advocacy.
Nutrition.Gov
Providing easy, online access to government information on food and human nutrition for consumers.
USDA Center for Nutrition Policy & Promotion
The USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion (CNPP) works to improve the health and well-being of Americans by developing and promoting dietary guidance that links scientific research.
Osteoporosis
Fight Osteoporosis Now
Healthy Girls, Healthy Women, a project of The Medical Foundation, aims to help young women prevent osteoporosis through nutrition and physical activity.
Mayo Clinic: Osteoporosis
Basics, treatment information and more from the Mayo Clinic.
MedlinePlus: Osteoporosis
Basics, treatment information and links to other sites.
National Institute of Health: Osteoporosis
Resources include: Diagnosis, treatment information and links to other sites.
National Osteoporosis Foundation
Established in 1984, the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) is the nation's leading voluntary health organization solely dedicated to osteoporosis and bone health.
Parenting
Healthy Children
Healthy Children, from the American Academy of Pediatrics, is committed to optimal physical, mental, and social health for all infants, children, adolescents, and young adults.
Autism Speaks
Autism Speaks aims to urge the government and private sector to take action to address this urgent global health crisis.
Child Welfare Information Gateway
CWIG connects child welfare organizations, adoption agencies, and the general public to timely, essential information.
American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
AACAP is dedicated to treating children, adolescents, and families affected by mental, behavioral, or developmental disorders.
National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities
We provide information on disabilities in children and services for youth with disabilities.
Dr Greene's Pediatrics
Pediatrician Dr. Alan Greene offers a searchable, interactive library of resources to make raising healthy families easier.
Healthy Schools, Healthy Youth
Schools play a critical role in promoting the health and safety of young people.
National Institute of Child Health & Human Development
The NICHD conducts and supports research on the health of children, adults, families, and populations.
Zero to Three Parenting
ZERO TO THREE informs, trains and supports professionals, policymakers and parents in their efforts to improve the lives of infants and toddlers.
Books:
Caring for your Baby and Young Child, Caring for Your School Age Child & Caring for Your Adolescent from The American Academy of Pediatrics
Essential resources for all parents who want to provide the very best care for their children.
Immunizations & Infectious Diseases from The American Academy of Pediatrics
Readers will learn what exactly an infectious disease is; the differences between bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites; and about contagions and incubation times.
American Medical Association Complete Guide to Your Children's Health from the American Medical Association
A quick, comprehensive look at normal childhood development and childhood illness, along with an easy-to-read encyclopedia on childhood diseases that illustrates, hundreds of conditions.
Your One-year Old, Your Two-year Old, Your Three-year Old, Your Four-year Old, Your Five-year Old, Your Six-year Old, Your Seven-year Old, and so on… by Louise Bates Ames
Drs. Ames' books offer parents practical advice and enlightening psychological insights for every age.
The Parents Guide to Food Allergies by Marianne Barber
Addresses the practical, physical, and emotional issues kids and their families face, including handling emergencies, stocking a kitchen with safe foods, and eating in school, restaurants and traveling.
Children's Hospital Guide to Your Child's Health and Development from The Children's Hospital, Boston
A veritable encyclopedia on current developmental theory, medical recommendations and diverse parenting ideas.
Becoming the Parent You Want to Beby Laura Davis
Based on nine principals that deal with issues of time, optimism, struggle, anger, balancing needs, and learning as you go, with specific tips that run the gamut from getting your child to sleep to toilet training as a metaphor for learning to disciplinary issues.
3am Handbook by William Feldman
What to expect in the maternity ward, Choosing your child's doctor, coping with a baby who won't stop crying, Hints on breast-feeding, dealing with behavioral and learning problems, treating rashes and fevers, preventing burns and other injuries in your home.
Parents Guide to Children's Congenital Heart Defects by Gerri Freid Kramer & Shari Maurer
CHDs vary in complexity, but with the assistance of more than 30 medical experts, the authors clearly outline the most common scenarios parents are likely to face.
Parkinson's Disease
Mayo Clinic: Parkinson's Disease
Basics, treatment information and more from the Mayo Clinic.
MedlinePlus: Parkinson's Disease
Resources include: diagnosis/symptoms, treatment, management, news, and research
National Institute of Health: Parkinson's Disease
Diagnosis, treatment information and links to other sites.
National Parkinson Foundation
NPF is the only organization with a singular focus on improving the quality of care in Parkinson's disease.
Parkinson's Disease Foundation
The Parkinson's Disease Foundation (PDF) is a leading national presence in Parkinson's disease research, education and public advocacy.
Pregnancy, Fertility & Adoption
A Child Waits: Adoption Loans
We provide low interest adoption loans and adoption grants for families who could not proceed with their adoption without our help.
Adoption.com
We help hopeful adoptive parents make adoption dreams come true and assist adoptees and birthparents to find birth families.
American Pregnancy Association
Committed to promoting reproductive and pregnancy wellness through education, research, advocacy, and community awareness.
Office of Foster Care and Adoption Education Policy
Dedicated to developing practical responses to improve adoption and foster care policy and practice.
Hygeia: Perinatal Loss and Bereavement
A community of support for families which have endured the tragedy of miscarriage, stillbirth and neonatal / infant loss.
International Council on Infertility Information
A nonprofit organization, helping patients explore their family-building options.
LactMed
A database of drugs, possible effects on lactation, and alternate drugs to consider.
Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange
Seeks to find "a permanent place to call home" for children and teens in foster care in Massachusetts.
National SIDS Resource Center
A central source of information on sudden infant death.
Books:
Complete Book of International Adoption by Dawn Davenport
The Complete Book of International Adoption is a must-have for any parent considering building their family through adoption.
Essential C-Section Guide by Maureen Connolly and Dana Sullivan
The Essential C-Section Guide offers a host of important facts, ranging from the effects of a C-section on future deliveries to the risks of anesthesia.
Mayo Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy
Provides self-care tips and charts that indicate how to handle "troublesome signs and symptoms" during each three week period.
What to Expect When You're Expecting by Heidi Murkoff
This new edition is everything parents-to-be have come to expect from What to Expect... only better.
Healthy Eating During Pregnancy by W. Allan Walker and Courtney Humphries
This guide offers solid information and medically sound advice on prenatal nutrition.
Senior Health
AARP
AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization that helps people 50 and over improve the quality of their lives.
Geriatric Mental Health
The Geriatric Mental Health Foundation raises awareness of psychiatric and mental health disorders affecting the elderly.
Medicare
The Official U.S. Government Site for People with Medicare.
NIH Senior Health
This easy-to-use website features basic health and wellness information for older adults from the National Institutes of Health.
Senior Resources from the US Government
Links to help with government benefits, consumer fraud, elder rights, care giving and caregiver support.
Books:
The New Ourselves, Growing Olderby Paula B. Doress-Worters and Diana Laskin Siegal
One of the first books to focus on the health and social concerns of women over the age of 50, with information on relationships, pregnancy and birth control, housing, and health conditions, breast cancer research, nutritional guidelines, menopause, and healthcare reform.
Older People & Their Caregivers Across the Spectrum of Careby Judith Howe
This book examines models used by social workers and other health care professionals to determine the type of care necessary.
Consumer Reports Complete GT Health Services for Seniors from Consumer Reports
What your family needs to know about finding and financing, medicare, assisted living, nursing homes, home care, adult day care.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
American Social Health Association
The American Social Health Association has advocated on behalf of patients to help improve public health outcomes since 1914.
CDC: Sexually Transmitted Disease
STD Information from the Centers for Disease Control, covering Chlamydia and LGV, Gonorrhea, Herpes, PID, Syphilis, Trichomoniasis and more.
Mayo Clinic: Sexually Transmitted Disease
Basics, treatment information and more from the Mayo Clinic
MedlinePlus: Sexually Transmitted Disease
Resources include: diagnosis/symptoms, treatment, management, and research.
National Institute of Health: Sexually Transmitted Disease
Resources include: Diagnosis, treatment information and links to other sites
Stroke
American Stroke Association
We envision a world where stroke is minimized and ultimately eliminated as a major health problem.
Mayo Clinic: Stroke
Basics, treatment information and more from the Mayo Clinic.
MedlinePlus: Stroke
Resources include: diagnosis/symptoms, treatment, management, news, and research.
National Institute of Health: Stroke
Resources include: Diagnosis, treatment information and links to other sites.
National Stroke Association
We strive to increase public awareness about stroke prevention, symptom recognition, treatment options and rehabilitation.
Books:
Living with Stroke by Richard C Senelick, Karla Dougherty
Here, stroke patients and their families can find the entire process of rehabilitation,as well as the mechanisms that can create a stroke.
Stroke Essentials by Adrian J. Goldszmidt and Louis R. Caplan
Stroke Essentials provides a concise, authoritative, and practical guide to the detection, evaluation, and treatment of stroke.
Stroke-free for Life by David Wiebers
Crucial information, including different types of stroke, stroke risk factors and where to get the best treatment.
Stroke Sourcebook Edited by Amy Sutton
Anthology of basic consumer health information about stroke.
Substance Abuse
National Institute on Drug Abuse
NIDA's mission is ensuring the effective dissemination of research to improve prevention, treatment and policy.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
SAMHSA's mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America's communities.
Illegal Drug Information
Descriptions of controlled substances from the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Narcotics Anonymous
Narcotics Anonymous is an international, community-based association of recovering drug addicts.
Partnership for a Drug-free America
Partnership for a Drug-Free America unites parents, scientists and professionals to help families raise healthy children.
Books:
Al-anon Family Groups
Al-Anon's first book, in its original text, remains pertinent.
Alcoholics Anonymous
Fourth edition of the basic text of A.A: Chapters describing the A.A. recovery program and new personal histories.
Alcoholism Sourcebook edited by Amy Sutton
Anthology of basic consumer health information about alcohol use, abuse and dependence.
Drug Abuse Sourcebook edited by Catherine Ginther
Anthology of basic consumer health information about substance abuse, and the misuse of prescription medications.
Getting Sober, Getting Well from The Women's Alcoholic Program Of CASPER
A treatment guide for caregivers from the Cambridge and Somerville program for alcoholism and drug rehabilitation
Heart of Addiction by Lance M. Dodes
Recommendations for anyone with an addiction, be it to gambling, alcohol, or prescription medications.
Recovery Book by Arlene Eisenberg, Howard Eisenberg
Explains what a recovering addict and his or her family will face during every stage of living clean and sober.
Letting Go of Shame by Ronald Potter-Efron, Patricia Potter-Efron
Explains what shame is with exercises to help readers identify their feelings of shame and build their self-esteem.
Women's Health
Alan Guttmacher Institute for Sexual & Reproductive Health
Guttmacher Institute continues to advance sexual and reproductive health through research, analysis and public education.
Womens Health & Sexuality links
Health and sexuality links covering women's health, breast cancer, reproductive rights, sexuality and AIDS.
For Women
Official site for The National Women's Health Information Center, a service of the US Department of Health and Human Services.
Hormonal Health
The Hormone Foundation provides a number of educational resources related to a woman's endocrine system and overall health.
North American Menopause Society
The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) is dedicated to promoting the health of women through an understanding of menopause.
Obgyn.net
OBGYN.net is the homepage for women researching or seeking personal healthcare information and treatment options.
Planned Parenthood Massachusetts
To protect and promote sexual and reproductive health by providing clinical services, education and advocacy.
Books:
American Medical Association's Complete Guide to Women's Health
Contains the latest medical facts and research and an outline of women's health.
Dr. Susan Love's Breast Book by Susan M. Love
Includes biopsy and screening methods, implants, new discoveries in breast-cancer treatment and other topics.
Dr Susan Love's Menopause & Hormones Book by Susan M. Love
A set of guidelines regarding heart disease, breast cancer, hormone replacement therapy, and treating symptoms of menopause.
Essential C-Section Guide by Maureen Connolly and Dana Sullivan
Offers frank discussions of the circumstances a C-section presents, including the effects of a C-section on future deliveries.
Harvard Guide to Women's Health by Karen J. Carlson and Stephanie A. Eisenstat
Arranged alphabetically like an encyclopedia of health.
Healthy Heart Handbook for Women by The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute
An owner's manual for your heart, provides practical suggestions for reducing risk.
Healthy Women Healthy Lives by Susan E. Hankinson and JoAnn E. Manson
The first book based on the now-famous 30-year study of thousands of nurses focuses on major preventable diseases.
Her Healthy Heart by Linda Ojeda
Ojeda discusses nutrients, supplements, stress, spirituality, and unhealthy vs. heart-healthy behavior.
Mayo Clinic Guide to Women's Cancers
This book contains information on cancers unique to woman, prevention strategies,early detection, and tools for coping.
Our Bodies Ourselves from Boston Women's Health Book Collective
Emphasizes sexual health, reproductive rights, community-based organization and the political, economic and recent health research.
Ourselves Growing Older from Boston Women's Health Book Collective
"Most of us are heading into the second half of life . . . We challenge the notion that disability comes inevitably with aging."
Woman's Guide to Menopause and Perimenopause by Mary Jane Minkin and Carol V. Wright
Dr. Mary Jane Minkin answers all the questions about menopause that women need to ask their health care providers.
Woman's Concise Guide to Common Medical Tests by Michele C. Moore and Caroline M. De Costa
Michele C. Moore and Caroline M. de Costa explain screening tests for STDs, diabetes, thyroid disease, bone loss, and cancer (including breast, colon, and skin).
Wisdom of Menopause by Christiane Northrup
According to Christiane Northrup, menopause often marks the beginning of a woman's most sexually passionate, creatively inspired, and professionally productive phase of life.
Women's Bodies Women's Wisdom by Christiane Northrup
Northrup covers the treatment of PMS, menstrual cramps, breast cancer, fibroids, endometriosis, infertility, depression, childbirth, abortion, cystitis, and more.
Women & Self-Esteem by Linda Tschirhart Sanford and Mary Ellen Donovan
How women's harmful attitudes about themselves are shaped.