Coping with ET

Essential tremor is a life-altering condition that makes everyday living a test of ingenuity, perseverance and self-esteem. Daily activities such as writing a letter, dressing and eating cause frustration that can lead to stress with temporarily worsening tremor.

Once known as familial tremor, benign essential tremor or hereditary tremor, essential tremor (ET) is a neurological condition that causes a rhythmic trembling of the hands, head, voice, legs or trunk. Some even feel an internal shake. It is often confused with Parkinson’s disease although ET is eight times more common, affecting an estimated 7 -10 million Americans alone. Because of stereotypes and a lack of awareness, many people with ET never seek medical care though many would benefit from treatment.

Free Resources for Essential Tremor

Request these resources provided by the IETF.
Medical Alert Card
Essential Tremor Information Packet

Join the Discussion

The IETF hosts an online support group on Facebook.
This is a closed discussion group for those affected by essential tremor. 

Assistive Devices, Therapies & Techniques

Assistive Technology is an umbrella term that includes assistive, adaptive, and rehabilitative devices for people with disabilities. The IETF hopes you find the assistive devices and technologies listed will enable you to perform daily tasks with greater ease.

Americans with Disabilities Act

Amendments to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), signed into law on September 25, 2008, clarify and reiterate who is covered by the law’s civil rights protections. The ADA Amendments Act of 2008 revises the definition of disability to more broadly encompass impairments that substantially limit a major life activity.

Job Accommodation Network

The Job Accommodation Network (JAN) is the leading source of free, expert, and confidential guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues. Working toward practical solutions that benefit both employer and employee, JAN helps people with disabilities enhance their employability, and shows employers how to capitalize on the value and talent that people with disabilities add to the workplace. JAN is a provided as a service of the Office of Employment Policy, a division of the U.S. Department of Labor.

Disability Benefits

The Social Security Administration (SSA) pays benefits to people who can’t work due to a disability. To some, essential tremor is considered a disability, but to others it is not. It depends on the impact it has on one’s life. Learn more about the application process on SSA’s website.