The MS Support Group: Coping In Company With Chronic Illness

Background: Support groups offer an essential way for those diagnosed with MS to feel supported in their diagnosis and comforted by knowing they are not alone. Professionals and researchers both in the health and mental health communities have taken a look at the benefits of attending supportive groups and the best practices for leading these types of groups. Generally, supportive groups allow for a place where individuals can learn from their peers in a non-threatening and mutually supportive environment. Additionally, supportive groups can offer social support which has been shown to reduce psychological distress, which can be high when coping with illness. The research indicates that support groups are a necessary component of a patient's wellness routine and professionals in the MS community should encourage all patients to find a group that is a good fit for them.

Objectives: This platform will explore the current research and best practices in support groups for those with chronic illnesses. Consolidating current research allows us to understand the benefits of these groups for our patients and understand how best to form these types of groups. The presentation will also look into the benefits of professionally run vs. self-led support groups, examine some of the challenges faced when beginning and running a supportive group, and offer some tips and strategies for those interested in starting a group for their patients.

Methods: Not Applicable

Results: Not Applicable

Conclusions: Living with a chronic illness such as MS can be isolating and can leave the MS patient feeling confused, angry, afraid, and alone. Attending a support group to speak with others who are coping with similar symptoms and concerns can reduce the emotional health strains of living with a chronic illness as well as help to encourage patients to take an active role in their self-care. Both professionally led and self-led support groups can be advantageous in different ways and can offer various environments for patients to find help. These groups not only allow for the building of necessary networks of reinforcement for those living with MS, but provide ongoing social support and encourgement for healthy routines. Looking through the clinical social work lens, this presentation will synthesize the available research and draw conclusions for helping us to better understand the overall importance of support groups.