Mental health support

Living with a long-term health condition like multiple sclerosis (MS) can take a toll on your mental health, and it’s crucial to know that support is available when you need it most.

Need someone to talk to?

If you find yourself struggling and in need of someone to talk to, our MS-UK Helpline is just a call away. Our dedicated team is here to provide information and emotional support without judgment. We won’t tell you what to do, but we’ll empower you with the information and support needed to make decisions that are right for you. Reach out whenever you need a listening ear.

MS-UK Helpline

Call 0800 783 0518

Email info@ms-uk.org

Web Chat

WhatsApp 07824 708897

Available Monday to Friday, 10 am to 4 pm.

Find a counsellor with MS experience

Navigating through finding the right person to talk to can be overwhelming. To simplify this process, MS-UK offers a directory of fully qualified, registered counsellors who have completed our MS Awareness and Counselling People with Multiple Sclerosis eLearning courses. This ensures they already possess a deep understanding of MS, saving you from having to explain your condition in every session.

Information support

MS-UK is committed to providing the most up-to-date and diverse information on various subjects affecting those with MS. Explore our MS and mental health Choices booklet for comprehensive coverage of the challenges you might face and, more importantly, guidance on what to do and where to turn.

Useful reads

Grab a cup if tea and have a read of these useful articles.

• Mental health at work and MS
• 12 of the best mental health apps
• 3 steps to help beat stress
• Changing your outlook
• Talking to others can help – join a Peer Pod

Need help right now?

Please find below some contact details below of organisations that you can contact in the case of an emotional crisis

• Call NHS 111 – if you feel you are experiencing a mental health emergency then there is the option to be put through to the mental health crisis team in your area
• Samaritans Call 116 123 (free) Email jo@samaritans Go to www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/self-help
• Make an emergency appointment with your regular GP
• Go to your local accident and emergency department or call 999 and ask for an ambulance if you are feeling suicidal, or if you have self-harmed and are concerned about it
• Contact your out-of-hours GP service. Google ‘out of hours GP in x’ (give your location)
• Alternatively, your GP surgery will usually provide an answer phone message advising you of who to contact in an emergency, together with other useful telephone numbers
• Shout 85258 – offer 24/7 confidential text crisis support for times when you need immediate assistance. Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 or go to https://giveusashout.org
• Contact CALM (Campaign against living miserably) – Call 0800 585858 (daily 5pm to midnight) or webchat is available – go to www.thecalmzone.net