What is Peer Support?
Sometimes, you just need to talk to someone who really understands what you’re going through. Like so many other things, living with MS is best understood through firsthand experience. Although each person’s experience is unique, there are some things that most people have in common. Peer Support can be a great help by creating a unique supportive connection through a common bond.
This Peer Support Program offers information, companionship, emotional support and encouragement, via the telephone, to peers living with MS. The Program matches trained volunteers who are living with MS with others with MS or family members.
A Peer Support volunteer is assigned to a MS Peer for 3 months. At the end of that time, the program is evaluated and the service is complete. Further services can be requested if needed.
Through regular phone conversations, participants and peers discuss such things as:
• employment concerns
• disclosing a diagnosis
• coping with fatigue, pain or other symptoms
• MS treatment options
• finding resources
• managing relationships with family and friends
Who are the Peer Support Volunteers?
Peer Support volunteers are caring, compassionate individuals who have been living with MS for a least two years and exhibit positive coping skills. They have excellent listening and communication skills, good interpersonal skills, and the ability to follow through on commitments. Peer Support volunteers receive extensive training, and ongoing support and supervision from Chapter staff.
Want to Become a Peer Support Volunteer?
Many people with MS and their families seek support, understanding, information, and guidance from others that experience common circumstances. Peer Support Volunteers help by providing a safe environment for people to discuss the emotions and experiences associated with MS.
The coping strategies you have developed by living with MS are tools that will allow you help others.
Peer Support Volunteers are required to complete application, background check, and attend a two day in-person & 7 week telephone training program.
Topics include:
• Learning about multiple sclerosis
• Communication and listening skills
• Crisis intervention
• Programs and services available through the National MS Society.
Volunteers are asked to make a one-year commitment to the program, and must have MS for at least two years or have a family member with MS for at least two years.
How do I Participate?
There is no cost to participate in the Peer Support Program. To request services or if you are interested in being a valuable and much treasured volunteer of the National MS Society-Georgia Chapter contact Chapter at 1-800-FIGHT-MS or e-mail
Peer Support
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