The holidays are a time for relaxation, connection, and rejuvenation. Holidays for those with Spina Bifida, and many others, pose both difficulties and opportunities for great enjoyment. This session is about staying positive during the holidays and beyond–recognizing barriers, ableism, and our own internal dialogue and perceptions. Panelists discuss how they:

• manage their expectations during the holidays and keep their fear of missing out at bay
• cope with feelings of loneliness
• avoid the tendency to compare themselves to others
• seek support when they feel stuck and unmotivated
• keep themselves energized, restored, and ready to do the next thing life brings.

The session facilitator is Elizabeth Scriven, PsyD, and panelists include Adam Sealscott, Jay Dashefsky, and Jenny Mutz.

Links to the presented material:

Session Recording
Session Presentation

Presenters:

Elizabeth Scriven, PsyD
Dr. Scriven is a licensed psychologist in the State of Washington. Dr. Scriven is currently working as a clinical supervisor/clinician with Therapeutic Health Service, a community mental health setting in Everett, WA. She has worked in the mental health field since 2012 on behalf of people of different ages, abilities, and backgrounds in a variety of settings including hospital rehabilitation, outpatient clinics, and community mental health.

Adam Sealscott, Spina Bifida Advocate
Adam is a 34-year-old Ohioan born with Spina Bifida. He likes to spend time traveling, playing guitar, doing drone photography, and spending time with family/friends.

Jay Dashefsky, MSWJay was born with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus and lives in Arizona. He graduated with a B.A. in Humanities (with a film concentration) and a master’s degree in social work with a concentration in policy administration, and community practice, both from Arizona State University. He also has a Disability Resource Specialist graduate certificate from Northern Arizona University. Jay always emphasizes a can-do attitude and enjoys seeing others succeed. Jay is passionate about engaging with the Spina Bifida community to get involved in advocacy and awareness efforts that help enhance the lives of people with Spina Bifida, as well as bring about awareness of Spina Bifida.

Jenny Mutz, MA, PLY
Jenny is an Academic Advisor with the Hines College of Architecture and Design at the University of Houston. She assists undergraduate students in the College.

About the Spina Bifida Association
The Spina Bifida Association (SBA), founded in 1973, now in its 50th year SBA is the only national voluntary health agency dedicated to Spina Bifida. The mission is to build a better and brighter future for all those impacted by Spina Bifida. Fueled by dedicated healthcare providers, parents, adults, caregivers, and others, we are committed to helping people live longer, healthier lives through Research, Education & Support, Clinical Care, Network Building, and Advocacy.