A recurring issue for members of the Peer Support Group has been having to cope with a variety of physical health problems, and the effect this has on our ability to deal with our mental health issues.

Group members have reportede a variety of complaints, ranging from relatively minor colds and infections that have nevertheless drained them of energy to discovering a heart condition requiring immediate and ongoing cardiac treatment.  Some people have shared how they live with long term health conditions that impair their quality of life and restrict mobility, such as recovering from a stroke, or managing diabetes.  One member has found themselves living with long-covid, with a dramatic effect on energy levels and ability to carry out everyday tasks such as house work. 

Having multiple conditions can mean having to deal with an array of services and support systems which are not always user friendly.  The resulting effort and frustration in accessing the correct treatment and care can further deplete people's ability to maintain their mental health.  The danger is that this results in a downward spiral, with low mood impacting people's motivation to manage ongoing physical issues.

The act of sharing these problems within the group seems to help lighten the load of living with illness.  People's ongoing sagas of accessing care, arguments with experte over treatment pathways are given a listening ear and support and encouragement to keep going.  And attendance at the group can be a motivation to get out of the house as people overcome mobility issues and low motivation to attend each week.

Peer.support may not hold all the answers for people dealing with multiple issue on a daily basis. But it can provide a focus for the week, a willing audience for our trials and tribulations, and a source of encouragement and support to keep soldiering on.