It is a well-known fact that men find it much more difficult to talk about their feelings than women. With poor mental health increasing significantly in recent years, even before you factor in a life-altering diagnosis of a condition such as multiple sclerosis (MS), it’s more important than ever to seek support from those that truly understand what you’re going through.
Having a network of supportive peers with whom you can offload without fear of judgement can help immensely. Being able to share coping strategies, encourage, and motivate on the difficult days and laugh with on the good can really make a world of difference to how you live your life with MS.
It is for this reason that we created Peer Pod’s that are just for men. They are a welcoming and supportive online space where you can meet others who may be facing similar challenges. The pods provide the opportunity for you to speak openly and freely about mental health and anything that matters to you, whether MS related or not.
The pods take place every Monday afternoon at 2pm and Thursday evening at 7pm via Zoom.
If you would like more information about how to join this or any of our other peer pods, please fill out our sign up form. Our Peer Support Coordinator Vicky will get back to you shortly.
Hi, I’m Chris. I was only diagnosed in 2018 with RRMS then moved on to PPMS in 2019. My interests are football and rugby league, and my grandchildren.
I joined MS-UK for the online activities like the Accessible Exercise Sessions and Chair Yoga and got so much out of it, that I decided to volunteer to help with the Peer Support Service.
I’ll be taking the lead on the Monday afternoon peer pod and I’m excited to meet you all in a safe and welcoming environment.
Hi, my name is Steve.
I was diagnosed with PPMS in 2014, and since then have volunteered in various roles to support
other people that are affected by multiple sclerosis. Currently, I volunteer at an oxygen therapy centre (MS Action), and on a telephone befriending service. I have been a volunteer support worker with the MS Society for 5 years. I have decided to volunteer as a Men’s Peer Pod host for MS-UK as I know what a difference it can make to be able to talk to other people who completely understand the challenges of living with this condition, and I’m keen to help provide a supportive space for those that feel alone or would just like to meet others in a similar boat.
My interests include watching various sports, films, music, history, travel, and spending time with my family.
I’m really looking forward to meeting other men in the Thursday Evening peer pod session! We’ll be sharing ideas, experiences, and strategies for living well with MS. Come and say hello!
