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Hello! Have you recently had an appointment with a healthcare provider who did not understand the basics of bronchiectasis treatment? I get tired of explaining bronchiectasis symptoms and treatments to healthcare providers, whether they are direct healthcare professionals, physical therapists, dietitians, or any other provider. Below is a basic treatment flyer on bronchiectasis that you can share, as needed, with a healthcare provider.
 https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Portals/0/Files/WBD/WBD_Treatment_Flyer_WEB.pdf

Hello! Have you recently had an appointment with a healthcare provider who did not understand the basics of bronchiectasis treatment? I get tired of explaining bronchiectasis symptoms and treatments to healthcare providers, whether they are direct healthcare professionals, physical therapists, dietitians, or any other provider. Below is a basic treatment flyer on bronchiectasis that you can share, as needed, with a healthcare provider.
Click link to learn more: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/Educational-Materials-Resources/Downloads-Library#TreatmentBronch

Hello! Have you recently had an appointment with a healthcare provider who did not understand the basics of bronchiectasis treatment? I get tired of explaining bronchiectasis symptoms and treatments to healthcare providers, whether they are direct healthcare professionals, physical therapists, dietitians, or any other provider. Below is a basic treatment flyer on bronchiectasis that you can share, as needed, with a healthcare provider.
Click link to learn more: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Portals/0/Files/WBD/WBD_Flyer_2026.pdf?ver=hWkiH_PNggBt1dWcpinPBw%3d%3d

Hello! Have you recently had an appointment with a healthcare provider who did not understand the basics of bronchiectasis treatment? I get tired of explaining BNTM to healthcare providers, whether they are direct healthcare professionals, physical therapists, dietitians, or any other provider. Below is a basic information sheet on the treatment of bronchiectasis that you can share, as needed, with a healthcare provider. WBD_Treatment_Flyer_WEB (1).pdf

Hello! Have you recently had an appointment with a healthcare provider who did not understand the basics of bronchiectasis treatment? I get tired of explaining BNTM to healthcare providers, whether they are direct healthcare professionals, physical therapists, dietitians, or any other provider. Below is a basic information sheet on the treatment of bronchiectasis that you can share, as needed, with a healthcare provider.WBD_Treatment_Flyer_WEB (1).pdf

thank you I am looking forward in being a part of this

Are you familiar with the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association’s Care Center Network? This nationwide network of centers helps support high-quality, specialized care for bronchiectasis and NTM lung disease. 

Looking for expert care to help manage your lung health? Find a specialized center near you using our searchable directory: https://copdf.co/Find-Care

How do you currently track your respiratory symptoms?

The bronchiectasis symptom and therapy tracker was designed for
those who wish to track their symptoms. Using this tool will help you track how
you feel, your airway clearance performance, and your daily activity log.

This tool provides boxes to check off daily to track how you
feel overall. If you have 3 or more yellow days in a row, notify your health
care provider of changes in your symptoms.

Airway Clearance Tracker-If you find that you need to
perform airway clearance more than 3 times a day for three days, please notify
your health care provider of this change.

Daily Activity Log- includes a checklist for the most common
types of exercise and activities. Checking this box will note that you can continue
exercising, being unable to maintain your exercise plan is a red flag that
something is going on, and it may be time to contact your healthcare provider.

Some individuals may be in denial since no one wants to face
the fact that they are getting sick, dealing with a flare-up/ exacerbation.
Tracking and managing your symptoms on a timely basis is far better than
waiting until a respiratory issue worsens. I hope that you will find this
management tool helpful.

https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/Educational-Materials-Resources/Downloads-Library#Symptom

How do you currently track your respiratory symptoms?

The bronchiectasis symptom and therapy tracker was designed for
those who wish to track their symptoms. Using this tool will help you track how
you feel, your airway clearance performance, and your daily activity log.

This tool provides boxes to check off daily to track how you
feel overall. If you have 3 or more yellow days in a row, notify your health
care provider of changes in your symptoms.

Airway Clearance Tracker-If you find that you need to
perform airway clearance more than 3 times a day for three days, please notify
your health care provider of this change.

Daily Activity Log- includes a checklist for the most common
types of exercise and activities. Checking this box will note that you can continue
exercising, being unable to maintain your exercise plan is a red flag that
something is going on, and it may be time to contact your healthcare provider.

Some individuals may be in denial since no one wants to face
the fact that they are getting sick, dealing with a flare-up/ exacerbation.
Tracking and managing your symptoms on a timely basis is far better than
waiting until a respiratory issue worsens. I hope that you will find this
management tool helpful.

https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/Educational-Materials-Resources/Downloads-Library#SymptomTracker





Bronchiectasis Symptom and Therapy Tracker

How do you currently track your respiratory symptoms?

The bronchiectasis symptom and therapy tracker was designed
for those who wish to track their symptoms. Using this tool will help you track
how you feel, your airway clearance performance, and your daily activity log.

This tool provides boxes to check off on a daily basis to
track how you feel overall. If you have 3 or more yellow days in a row, notify
your health care provider of changes in your symptoms. Airway Clearance Tracker-
If you find that you need to perform airway clearance more than 3 times a day
for three days, please notify your health care provider of this change.

Daily Activity Log- includes a checklist for the most common
types of exercise and activities. Checking this box will note that you can
continue exercising, being unable to maintain your exercise plan is a red flag
that something is going on, and it may be time to contact your healthcare
provider.

Some individuals may be in denial since no one wants to face
the fact that they are getting sick, dealing with a flare-up/ exacerbation. Tracking
and managing your symptoms on a timely basis is far better than waiting until a
respiratory issue worsens. I hope that
you will find this management tool helpful.
https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/Educational-Materials-Resources/Downloads-Library#SymptomTracker

Have you ever had one of those days where your breathing feels just a little “off”… but you’re not quite sure what to do next? 🫁

That’s where a Bronchiectasis Action Plan can really help.

Think of it as your personal roadmap - created together with your doctor - to guide you through the ups, the downs, and everything in between. It’s there for those moments when symptoms start to shift and you want to feel more confident about your next step.

An action plan can help you:
✨ Understand what your “baseline” looks like on a good day
✨ Recognize early warning signs (like changes in mucus, coughing, fatigue, or shortness of breath)
✨ Know what steps to take right away if things start to flare
✨ Feel more prepared about when it’s time to call your care team

The goal isn’t to make things complicated - it’s to make things clearer. When you already have a plan in place, it can take away some of the uncertainty and help you respond earlier, which can make a real difference.

If you don’t have one yet, it might be a great conversation to bring to your next appointment. You can even print one out ahead of time and go through it together so it truly fits your routine and your needs.

And if you already have one - this is a great reminder to take a quick look and make sure it still reflects how you’re feeling today.

💬 We’d love to hear from you:
Do you have an action plan in place? Has it helped you feel more prepared when symptoms change?

You’re not alone in this - we’re all learning from each other, one step at a time 💙

https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/Educational-Materials-Resources/Downloads-Library#ActionPlan

Hello! Have you ever driven your car when you felt very tired but you decided to push through and drive anyway?  I don’t want to sound like a “ negative Nelly” - many individuals never experience severe fatigue but others may experience severe fatigue due to weather changes, medications, poor sleep and more. I have had two experiences in the past when I pushed myself to drive somewhere when I was very tired; I am grateful that no one was injured nor damage was caused to my car. It is best to be mindful of how you truly feel when you get behind the wheel.  Fatigue can impact us in ways, similar to drinking and driving. Below is an article on the signs and symptoms of drowsy driving. https://www.thensf.org/tips-for-preventing-drowsy-driving/
Do you have a story to share with our community about this subject? 

🌞 Okay… who gave the outside permission to start looking this inviting again?! 🌿

You can feel it creeping in…
A little sunshine, a softer breeze, and that nudge that says, “Hey… maybe it’s time to get back out there for a bit.”

And honestly? That sounds pretty good.

As we ease into warmer days, it can be a great time to reconnect with the outdoors—but with bronchiectasis or NTM, a little planning can help keep things feeling good while you’re out there.

Here are a few “outside-ready” tips to keep things moving in the right direction:

💧 Hydration is your quiet helper
Warmer air + lungs that work a little harder = water becomes your best friend.

🌬️ Air quality still matters
Even on beautiful days, checking air quality can help you avoid unnecessary irritation.

😷 Mask up when it makes sense
Dust, pollen, yard work, or windy days—sometimes a mask can help reduce what you’re breathing in.

🧢 Dress for comfort (and the sun)
Light clothing, a hat, and a shady spot can go a long way in helping your body stay balanced.

🫁 Bring your go-to supports
Airway clearance tools, inhalers, oxygen—whatever helps you stay on track.
Keep those inhalers nearby—so the fun can keep rolling and your breathing stays right there with it.

🪑 Plan your “pause points”
A place to sit, rest, and reset isn’t a backup plan—it’s part of the plan.

🐢 Take it at your pace
There’s no rush here. A few minutes outside can be just as meaningful as a full afternoon.

🌼 Let’s hear from you:
What’s one thing you always bring (or wish you had brought 😄) when you head outside?

These warmer days don’t have to be all or nothing…
Just a little fresh air, your way, at your pace 💛

🌞 Okay… who gave “outside” permission to start looking this inviting again?! 🌿

You can feel it creeping in…
A little sunshine, a softer breeze, and that nudge that says, “Hey… maybe it’s time to get back out there for a bit.”

And honestly? That sounds pretty good.

As we ease into warmer days, it can be a great time to reconnect with the outdoors—but with bronchiectasis or NTM, a little planning can help keep things feeling good while you’re out there.

Here are a few “outside-ready” tips to keep things moving in the right direction:

💧 Hydration is your quiet helper
Warmer air + lungs that work a little harder = water becomes your best friend.

🌬️ Air quality still matters
Even on beautiful days, checking air quality can help you avoid unnecessary irritation.

😷 Mask up when it makes sense
Dust, pollen, yard work, or windy days—sometimes a mask can help reduce what you’re breathing in.

🧢 Dress for comfort (and the sun)
Light clothing, a hat, and a shady spot can go a long way in helping your body stay balanced.

🫁 Bring your go-to supports
Airway clearance tools, inhalers, oxygen—whatever helps you stay on track.
Keep those inhalers nearby—so the fun can keep rolling and your breathing stays right there with it.

🪑 Plan your “pause points”
A place to sit, rest, and reset isn’t a backup plan—it’s part of the plan.

🐢 Take it at your pace
There’s no rush here. A few minutes outside can be just as meaningful as a full afternoon.

🌼 Let’s hear from you:
What’s one thing you always bring (or wish you had brought 😄) when you head outside?

These warmer days don’t have to be all or nothing…
Just a little fresh air, your way, at your pace 💛

Gathering information/recommendations for a travel nebulizer. Many are hand-held rechargeable battery models. The medication is saline.  I would appreciate hearing from members who have actually own/used such a model for international travel. Thank you.

April is National Stress Awareness Month! There are a lot of potential sources of stress in life with chronic lung disease. Symptoms such as coughing, breathlessness, and airway mucus can cause stress. Other common stressors include side effects of medication, digestive problems, or limitations on your life—like having to cancel plans to avoid illness or managing symptoms. 


Stress is a natural part of life, but over time, too much stress takes a toll on your mental and physical health. Do you practice healthy ways to cope with stress in your life? For some more ideas you can use, listen to this episode of our podcast. Patient Ambassador Katie Keating shares her own insights, along with key strategies you can use in your daily life. 🧘‍️🏝️🚶 


Listen here: https://copdf.co/mental-health

April is National Stress Awareness Month! There are a lot of potential sources of stress in life with chronic lung disease. Symptoms such as coughing, breathlessness, and airway mucus can cause stress. Other common stressors include side effects of medication, digestive problems, or limitations on your life—like having to cancel plans to avoid illness or managing symptoms. 
Stress is a natural part of life, but over time, too much stress takes a toll on your mental and physical health. Do you practice healthy ways to cope with stress in your life? For some more ideas you can use, listen to this episode of our podcast. Patient Ambassador Katie Keating shares her own insights, along with key strategies you can use in your daily life. 🧘‍️🏝️🚶 
Listen here: https://copdf.co/mental-health

Overload of mucus as usual. Does anyone have “wet” bronchiectasis?

I am so glad to have found this group as my first Infectious Disease appointment was last week. My BP was uncharacteristically high when I arrived.  The two physicians I saw were very well informed about my positive NTM abcesses  positive culture.  Unfortunately they only had the reports of my recent CT scans.  I am having another CT Scan tomorrow and the digital films have been released to the ID docs.  As I currently do not have any symptoms of the NTM, the current decision is to watchful wait.  Once my new CT Scan can be compared we will meet again.  The physician say it is uncommon to have NTM without symptoms.  I do have bronchiectasis, occasionally use a flutter device.  It is rare that I produce sputum when using the device.  Are there others in this forum who are also watchfully waiting?  I wonder how long I could remain symptom free before the NTM causes symptoms to flare.  I appreciate all of your postings as I learn more about what could be ahead.

Sleep is not a luxury for those living with BNTM—it’s part of
the treatment plan. 💙 Sleep is your body’s built-in
repair system. When sleep improves, everything else becomes a little more
manageable. When you sleep, your body does its deepest healing:

✨Supports and strengthens your immune
system to better fight infection

✨Brain reset& clarity -Your
brain clears out waste, strengthens memory, improves focus, and emotional
balance. Sleep improves energy, mood, and resilience

✨Aids in tissue repair and recovery.
Poor sleep can result in more fatigue and slower healing.

🌙 Aim for a consistent
bedtime,🌙elevate your head if you have acid reflux and
or breathing is an issue, and🌙 create a calm,
low-stimulation wind-down routine. Sleep isn’t just “rest”—it’s an active, essential
repair and regulation process that affects almost every system in your body.

Below is an additional list of what is really happening while
you sleep: Physical repair & healing: Tissue repair, muscle recovery, and
lung inflammation are reduced. This is especially important for recovery and
resilience in BNTM patients. ⚖️ Hormone Balance-Sleep
regulates hormones that control stress (cortisol), appetite (ghrelin/leptin),
and blood sugar—impacting weight, mood, and energy. ❤Heart
health-Blood pressure lowers, heart rate stabilizes, and lowers strain on the
heart .🌿 Energy Restoration-Deep sleep restores your energy
at a cellular level—this is why poor sleep feels like running on empty. Think
of sleep as your body’s nightly “maintenance system”—cleaning, repairing, balancing,
and preparing you to function the next day. Do you have suggestions for others
to improve their sleep quality?

Sleep is not a luxury for those living with BNTM—it’s part
of the treatment plan. 💙 Sleep is your body’s
built-in repair system. When sleep improves, everything else becomes a little
more manageable. When you sleep, your body does its deepest healing:

✨Supports and strengthens your
immune system to better fight infection

✨Brain reset& clarity -Your brain
clears out waste, strengthens memory, improves focus, and emotional balance.
Sleep improves energy, mood, and resilience

✨Aids in tissue repair and
recovery. Poor sleep can result in more
fatigue and slower healing.

🌙 Aim for a consistent bedtime,🌙
elevate your head if you have acid reflux and or breathing is an issue, and🌙
create a calm, low-stimulation wind-down routine. Sleep isn’t just “rest”—it’s an active,
essential repair and regulation process that affects almost every system in
your body.

Below is an additional list of what is really happening
while you sleep: Physical repair & healing: Tissue repair,
muscle recovery, and lung inflammation are reduced. This is especially
important for recovery and resilience in BNTM patients. ⚖️
Hormone balance-Sleep regulates hormones that control stress (cortisol),
appetite (ghrelin/leptin), and blood sugar—impacting weight, mood, and energy.❤
Heart health-Blood pressure lowers, heart rate stabilizes, and lowers strain on
the heart .🌿 Energy restoration-Deep sleep restores your
energy at a cellular level—this is why poor sleep feels like running on empty.
Think of sleep as your body’s nightly “maintenance system”—cleaning, repairing,
balancing, and preparing you to function the next day. Do you have suggestions
for others to improve their sleep quality?

Sleep is not a luxury for those living with BNTM—it’s
part of the treatment plan. 💙 Sleep is
your body’s built-in repair system. When sleep improves, everything else
becomes a little more manageable. When you sleep, your body does its
deepest healing:

✨
Supports your immune system to better fight infection

✨
Helps clear inflammation in the lungs

✨
Improves energy, mood, and resilience

✨
Aids in tissue repair and recovery.  Poor sleep can result in more fatigue and slower
healing. 🌙 Aim for a consistent
bedtime,🌙 elevate your head if you have acid reflux
and or breathing is an issue, and🌙 create a calm,
low-stimulation wind-down routine.  Sleep isn’t just “rest”—it’s an active, essential repair and regulation
process that affects almost every system in your body. Below is a list of what
is really happening while you sleep: 🧠 Brain reset
& clarity -Your brain clears out waste, strengthens memory,
improves focus and emotional balance.🛡️ Immune
system strengthening -Sleep boosts infection-fighting cells and
helps your body respond to bacteria and viruses more effectively.🫁 Physical
repair & healing
-Tissues repair, muscles recover, and inflammation is reduced. This is
especially important for recovery and resilience in BNTM patients. ⚖️ Hormone
balance
-Sleep regulates hormones that control stress (cortisol), appetite (ghrelin/leptin),
and blood sugar—impacting weight, mood, and energy.❤ Heart health
-Blood pressure lowers, heart rate stabilizes, and lowers strain on the heart .🌿 Energy
restoration-Deep sleep restores your energy at a cellular
level—this is why poor sleep feels like running on empty. Think of sleep as
your body’s nightly “maintenance system”—cleaning, repairing, balancing, and
preparing you to function the next day. Do you have suggestions for others to improve
their quality of sleep?

Hi,
I am newly diagnosed with bronchiectasis and NTM and am about to start treatment. I am very concerned about some of the possible adverse effects from the medications that I have been reading about. 

Real people. Real stories. A cause that matters 💙

The Bronchiectasis and NTM Association's Airways & Fairways Charity Golf Tournament will take place in Orlando, FL on May 15, 2026. At the tournament, we will feature a special Honor Wall that highlights the names and stories that inspire our mission.


Each name represents someone whose life has been impacted by bronchiectasis or NTM lung disease.


We invite you to honor someone meaningful in your life. You can share your own name or recognize a family member, caregiver, healthcare provider, or anyone who has been touched by respiratory disease.


To add your tribute, please visit: https://copdf.co/supportgolf
Then follow these steps:
• Select $10
• Check the box for Honor Wall Tribute
• Choose In honor of under Type of dedication
• Enter the individual’s name in the Honoree Name field
• Enter your contact information
• Click Give Securely


If you need any help, feel free to reach out to giving@bronchandntm.org.


Adding a name to the Honor Wall is a simple way to make a meaningful impact and support a future with earlier diagnosis, better care, and more hope for those affected.


For more information about the tournament, visit: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Get-Involved/Events/Airways-Fairways-Charity-Golf-Tournament

Real people. Real stories. A cause that matters 💙

The Bronchiectasis and NTM Association’s Airways & Fairways Charity Golf Tournament will take place in Orlando, FL on May 15, 2026.

At the tournament, we will feature a special Honor Wall that highlights the names and stories that inspire our mission. Each name represents someone whose life has been impacted by bronchiectasis or NTM lung disease.

We invite you to honor someone meaningful in your life. You can share your own name or recognize a family member, caregiver, healthcare provider, or anyone who has been touched by respiratory disease.

To add your tribute, please visit: https://copdf.co/supportgolf
Then follow these steps:
• Select $10
• Check the box for Honor Wall Tribute
• Choose In honor of under Type of dedication
• Enter the individual’s name in the Honoree Name field
• Enter your contact information
• Click Give Securely

If you need any help, feel free to reach out to giving@bronchandntm.org.

Adding a name to the Honor Wall is a simple way to make a meaningful impact and support a future with earlier diagnosis, better care, and more hope for those affected.

For more information about the tournament, visit: Airways & Fairways Charity Golf Tournament | Event for Bronchiectasis and NTM

Have you ever been told you just have “severe asthma” or “COPD,” only to later discover that bronchiectasis or NTM lung disease had been overlooked? In the latest episode of our podcast, Dr. Ashwin Basavaraj, Associate Director at NYU Langone Health, unpacks how asthma, COPD, and other disorders can overlap with bronchiectasis and why these connections are often missed. Plus, what are some red flags to look out for, and when should you push for additional testing? 
Listen here: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/Educational-Materials-Resources/Podcasts

Have you ever been told you just have “severe asthma” or “COPD,” only to later discover that bronchiectasis or NTM lung disease had been overlooked? In the latest episode of our podcast, Dr. Ashwin Basavaraj, Associate Director at NYU Langone Health, unpacks how asthma, COPD, and other disorders can overlap with bronchiectasis and why these connections are often missed. Plus, what are some red flags to look out for, and when should you push for additional testing? 


Listen here: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/Educational-Materials-Resources/Podcasts

Hello! Is a good night’s sleep a challenge for you?  The combination of good sleep, medications, therapies, and good nutrition will assist you in healing .Below is a blog article on sleep hygiene that offers some tips. Sleeping and Healing for BNTM Patients: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/BronchandNTM360social/Community-Discussions/Blog/Article/150/Sleep-and-Healing-for-NTMBronchiectasis-Patients

Katie, and all, this a a question about controlling GERD that some or many of us struggle with. I have ordered Reflux Gourmet, which is yet to arrive so have not tried it.  And then I found this product through research; it is called Slippery Elm powder and is available to order or can be found in the Denver area at Natural Grocers in a 1 oz packet or a 4 oz bottle.
Has anyone tried this Slippery Elm Bark?  It acts a bit differently from Reflux Gourmet, yet is somewhat similar and is also a natural product.
After taking famotadine daily for almost a year, first at 20mg once in the morning, then thankfully found 10mg famotidine, I stopped taking it a few days ago. The famotadine was prescribed by the 
GI specialist at NJH. 
I am set now to simply keep my stomach in good shape by not filling it too full. 
If you have experience with Slippery Elm, please let me know.

I am down for the count. I was good for three weeks no infection. Two days ago I got another infection. Waiting to see the doctor on Tuesday.

Hello! A review of Stress Basics 101- Stress is the reaction of the brain and body to situations that put us in harm's way. The stressor may be a physical threat or a psychological threat. The stress response is our body's attempt to keep us safe from harm. When we are under stress, the chemistry (chemicals) in our brain changes. Changes in the chemicals in our brains affect our thinking patterns.The "fight or flight" response means that we have two basic ways of protecting ourselves when faced with a threat. We can run (flee) or try to overcome the threat ( fight). Good stress is when we can take on the problem at hand and return to the feeling of safety afterwards. Bad stress occurs when we have no or little control over the results. Body and brain chemistry become overreactive and get out of balance- this is known as the "freeze response". Learning how to deal with stressors in your daily life will reduce the chance of being in "freeze mode". Staying in the "freeze mode" impacts your physical and immune health. We are here to support you in learning new ways to deal with ongoing stressors. Please let us know if you have any questions. 
 Below is a short YouTube video on the fight, flight, or freeze response.

Hello! A review of Stress Basics 101- Stress is the reaction of the brain and body to situations that put us in harm's way. The stressor may be a physical threat or a psychological threat. The stress response is our body's attempt to keep us safe from harm. When we are under stress, the chemistry (chemicals) in our brain changes. Changes in the chemicals in our brains affect our thinking patterns.
The "fight or flight" response means that we have two basic ways of protecting ourselves when faced with a threat. We can run (flee) or try to overcome the threat ( fight). Good stress is when we can take on the problem at hand and return to the feeling of safety afterwards. Bad stress occurs when we have no or little control over the results. Body and brain chemistry become overreactive and get out of balance- this is known as the "freeze response".  Learning how to deal with stressors in your daily life will reduce the chance of being in "freeze mode". Staying in the "freeze mode" impacts your physical and immune health. We are here to support you in learning new ways to deal with ongoing stressors. Please let us know if you have any questions.  Below is a short YouTube video on the Fight, Flight or Freeze response: https://www.ted.com/talks/betsy_huggett_fight_flight_or_freeze_your_body_s_defense_mecha

Hello! A review of the basics of stress- Stress is the reaction of the brain and body to situations that put us in harm's way. The stressor may be a physical threat or a psychological threat. The stress response is our body's attempt to keep us safe from harm. When we are under stress, the chemistry ( chemicals) in our brain changes. The change in the chemicals in our brain affects our thinking patterns. 
The "fight or flight" response means that we have two basic ways of protecting ourselves when faced with a threat. We can run (flee) or try to overcome the threat ( fight). Good stress is when we can take on the problem at hand and return to the feeling of safety afterwards.  Bad stress occurs when we have no or little control over the results. Body and brain chemistry become overreactive and get out of balance- this is known as the "freeze response". We have posts listed below on Coping Skills, A Coping Skill Toolbox, and more.  Learning how to improve at dealing with stressors in your daily life will lessen the chance of being in the " freeze mode".  Staying in the "freeze mode", also referred to as chronic stress on a long-term basis, impacts your physical and immune health.  We are here to support you in learning ways to deal with ongoing stressors.  Please let us know if you have any questions. 

Hello! Were you able to watch the landing of Artemis 11 last evening? It was amazing to watch history in the making. We must believe that anything is possible in time.; more companies have shown interest in the field of BNTM over the past decade than ever before. BNTM Care Centers are opening up throughout the country, a greater number of medications and treatments are in the pipeline. Hold on to HOPE for better days ahead! https://www.bbc.com/news/live/c3dlnzv5r71t

Hello! A coping skills toolbox is a collection of strategies designed to help individuals manage stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges. These toolboxes can include various techniques and activities tailored to different situations and personal preferences.Components of a Coping Skills Toolbox may include - Coping Strategies: Techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing, or journaling that help regulate emotions.Creative Activities: Engaging in art, music, or writing to express feelings and distract from stress.Physical Activities: Exercise or movement-based strategies such as walking that promote physical well-being and reduce anxiety.Social Connections: Encouraging interaction with friends or family to foster support and connection.ideas for building a personal coping skills toolbox. Identifying personal triggers, and having your toolbox ready will improve your daily life. A few items in my toolbox include listening to upbeat music, journaling, walking, trashing negative thoughts, not overbooking due to uncertainty of stamina , keeping things in perspective and celebrating little wins. Emotional health toolboxes  can help individuals create a personalized approach to be prepared in managing their emotional health more effectively. Do you have a coping skills toolbox idea to share with the community? 

Sometimes depression doesn’t look like what we expect.

It’s not always tears.
It’s not always obvious.

Sometimes it’s just feeling… off.
Like you’re there, but not really there.
Like everything takes more effort than it should.
Like you’re tired in a way that rest doesn’t fix.

And when you’re living with COPD, bronchiectasis, NTM, or caring for someone who is — that weight can quietly build over time.

The physical side is already a lot.
The mental side can be just as heavy.

It might look like:
• Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
• Pulling back from people or conversations
• Feeling overwhelmed by small things
• Changes in sleep or appetite
• Low energy, low motivation, or trouble focusing
• Being harder on yourself than you’d ever be on anyone else

And sometimes… you can’t quite explain it at all.

If this sounds familiar, please don’t brush it off.

Don’t ignore how you’re feeling. It matters.

You don’t have to “push through” everything on your own.
You don’t have to wait until it gets worse to say something.

We are a community here — and you matter here.

On the hard days, even something small can help:
a message, a check-in, a few minutes outside, a familiar song, a quiet moment to breathe.

And if all you can do today is get through the day — that counts.

You are not a burden.
You are not alone.
And you don’t have to carry this quietly.

If you feel up to it, what’s something that helps you when the days feel heavier? 💙

Hello! Living with BNTM can bring moments of stress—but
small, intentional steps can make a big difference. 💙

A few of the many things that can cause stress may include-
things not going your way, things not going the way they “should”,
misperceptions, frustrations with your healthcare professionals’ office/
managing your own healthcare, taking things personally, and so much more. A few
tips on managing these stressors include the following:

✨Breathe deeply: Even 3–5 slow
breaths can calm your nervous system

✨Create a daily “quiet pocket”: A
few minutes of stillness, or mindfulness

✨Gentle movement: Stretching or a
short walk can ease both body and mind

✨Stay connected: You’re not
alone—reach out to someone who understands

✨Celebrate small wins: Every
airway clearance, every push to the next appointment, and each step forward in
the right direction matters. Stress doesn’t define your journey—your resilience
does. One calm moment at a time. Would you like to share some of your stress
management tips with our BNTM community?