In addition to providing emotional support and social interactions, support groups are also a great source of information. Here’s what you need to know.
Support groups are a great way to connect with others who can relate to or understand your experiences. According to a 2013 study, support groups can help Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients experience a decrease in depression and anxiety and an increase in life satisfaction.
In addition to providing emotional support and social interactions, support groups are also a great source of information. You may meet local health professionals and establish a network of resources while reducing the sense of isolation that may come with a condition like MS.
Online support groups
Online support groups are virtual discussion forums for those with similar experiences or interests — they're a great way to find support on topics such as mental illness, chronic illness, caregiving, or grief.
- Price: Most online support groups are free or come with a small fee
- How to join: Some might require a moderator's approval, and others might require an invitation
- Benefits: Online support groups offer anonymity and privacy that in-person groups don’t. They are also great for individuals in rural areas or those facing mobility issues due to their physical or mental health.
How to find an in-person MS support group near
A local support group is an excellent place to meet people going through MS and to get resources, information, peer support, and emotional support.
You can follow these steps to locate a local MS support group:
- Contact the National MS Society for a scannable database of local support groups.
- Ask an MS expert or your medical provider. They may know nearby support groups.
- Look into the possibility of local hospitals, community centers, nonprofit organizations, or religious institutions hosting or sponsoring MS support groups.
- Look for local organizations on social network sites like Facebook. They may have Facebook groups dedicated to providing support services.
Multiple sclerosis support groups
- National Multiple Sclerosis Society Facebook community
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) has a Facebook community with over 7,000 members. This is a platform for individuals with MS to ask and answer questions and to offer and receive support.
- MS World
MS World is a patient-led organization that has assisted over 225,000 members to date. The group's goal is to eliminate the isolation that comes with living with MS, and it advocates for the concept of wellness as a state of mind.
The organization maintains a highly active MS forum and chat room, providing an opportunity for individuals with MS, their loved ones, and those who suspect they may have MS to connect with one another.
- My MSAA Community
The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) created My MSAA Community, a peer-to-peer online forum available to anyone living with MS, their family members, or caregivers. Individuals can contribute to existing conversations or initiate new ones.
Aside from the online community, MSAA operates a toll-free helpline that people can use to seek advice from medical experts.
- MS Focus
The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation (MSF) developed the MS Focus Independent Support Group Network, a supportive community that enables people with MS or healthcare professionals to obtain diverse materials and resources from MSF to establish and manage their own support groups.
Participants can share their experiences and challenges of living with MS, while the support group leader can offer advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, promoting a positive mindset, and providing the latest MS research updates.
Interested in learning more about MS treatment at Local Infusion?
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Local Infusion Editorial : Aug 20, 2024 9:00:07 AM
Nicole Conceicao, NP