Multiple sclerosis is a serious illness to deal with, and we certainly need all the positive reinforcement we can find. A self-help group would be the logical choice to find that support and reinforcement. The group has a warm environment when every person in the group knows whatever they wish to talk about will be met with understanding, courtesy and support, and group members address all topics of discussion directly and intelligently. The best experience of a self-help group is finding people who understand MS firsthand and have lived through many of the challenges MS presents.
Groups are a wealth of information regarding coping skills.
Self-help groups can also direct group members to professional resources when a group member has issues that require professional assistance. Remember, also, that your local chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society is always available to provide assistance to you as a facilitator or to a group member who may need additional help and support beyond a self-help group. Let us examine how to make our meeting site friendly and welcoming. Below are practices that have proven to be successful in attaining a warm environment. The place we meet needs to be accessible.