Talking men’s health, diagnosis and the journey of living with MS with Andrew & David

*Trigger warning*
This is a trigger warning. In today's episode, we're discussing two men's experience of diagnosis and the impact on their lives and mental health, and we briefly discuss suicidal ideation. If you are not in the right place to listen to this topic, please skip from 7 minutes to 8:40 minutes of the episode. Please take care of yourself, and if you are in need of any assistance, please reach out to the people around you, your GP, or supports such as Lifeline, by calling 13 11 14.

In this episode of the MS podcast series, in recognition of Men's Health Week, running from 10th to 16th June, David and Andrew share their personal experiences of being diagnosed with MS and its impact on their lives and mental health.

David and Andrew have a deeply personal conversation about their initial symptoms, the diagnostic process, and the mental and emotional challenges they faced. The discussion also covers the societal pressures that men still face regarding toughness and emotional openness, as well as the importance of support systems, both professional and personal.

They highlight the importance of communication with healthcare professionals and the benefits of getting mental health support. David and Andrew both share their coping strategies and offer advice for other men living with MS, stressing the importance of self-care, listening to your body and seeing the GP, as well as reaching out for support.

With thanks to Andrew & David.

You can read the episode transcript Here

Reach out for support:
Lifeline on 13 11 14 or online at, www.lifeline.org.au,
Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or access free, confidential support online, www.beyondblue.org.au
MensLine Australia on 1300 78 99 78 or online at https://mensline.org.au/

Contact us:
MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email connect@msplus.org.au

Get in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing education@ms.org.au

Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.

MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.