Get connected
Our friendly forums offer peer-support and friendship, and many users tell us they feel less isolated. Our 2019 Big Survey found that 88% of men, 93% of women and 97% of young people told us they felt isolated because of ME.
Our free ME Friends Online forum is open to anyone aged 18 or over affected by ME, including carers.
If you're aged up to 19, you can join our young person's community for free, and make friends in our Young People's Forum. One user told us:
“There are so many great things about the forum, but the best thing for me is how it helps to keep away the feeling of isolation from the rest of the world. The fact that I can communicate with other people on here – who actually understand ME – really helps me feel less lonely.”
You can get connected:
- via social media - find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
- at your local ME support group (see below)
- as part of our annual Christmas Angels project
We also previously lead a peer mentoring project for people living with or caring for people with ME in Scotland from 2016 to 2021, resulting in a detailed guide for any groups or individuals interested in setting up a similar scheme.
Local ME support groups
Local ME support groups can be an invaluable source of information, advice, strength and support. They are run by volunteers, most of whom have ME themselves. Some groups welcome anyone affected by ME, including carers; others also cater for people with fibromyalgia as well as ME.
The services offered by your local group may include:
- regular meetings and social events
- information and advice on welfare benefits and healthcare
- telephone and email support
- a befriending service
- newsletters and other publications.
Getting in touch with them means the chance to speak to someone nearby who understands what you're going through.
While some groups have been unable to maintain contact during the pandemic, many have moved online. To find your local group, please get in touch.
