Vitamin D has a complex relationship with MS, with links to increased risk of diagnosis, influencing gene expression in immune cells and generally being lower in people living with MS. In this episode of the MS Boost, we speak with Dr Wei, neurologist and researcher from the Alfred MSNI clinic, and discuss how much vitamin D people with MS need, how to get adequate levels of Vitamin D, as well as the role of supplementation in children of parents with MS. With thanks to Dr Wei Yeh. Presenter: Dr Wei Yeh is a post-doctoral research fellow in the Department of Neuroscience, School of Translation ..read more

This episode of the MS Boost features Nicola Palfrey, a child clinical psychologist and head of clinical leadership at Headspace, focusing on how parents diagnosed with multiple sclerosis can effectively communicate with their teenagers about the diagnosis.  Nicola shares her views on teens and how they often get a bad rap, and the complexities of adolescent development. Nicola chats about the importance of respecting teens' experiences and offers strategies for parents to engage in meaningful conversations, that teens may be more receptive to.  Nicola also provides parents with tips ..read more

In this episode we chat with neurologist Dr Cassie Nesbitt, one of the principal investigators for haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) at the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne.  Cassie explains the process of HSCT, risks and considerations for accessing HSCT treatment overseas, as well as the current research on who is likely to benefit and how this is accessed in Australia. Cassie outlines things to consider when undergoing HSCT such as fertility preservation, and the impact of HSCT on the immune system. We chat about how hope plays a role in people taking risks for treatment, and ..read more

With thanks to Olivia Wills. Olivia is an Accredited Practising Dietitian and member of Dietitians Australia’s. She completed a Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics (Hons)(Deans Scholar) from the University of Wollongong in 2021. Olivia is now completing a PhD in multiple sclerosis and lifestyle management and is supported by a postgraduate scholarship from MS Australia. At the heart of Olivia’s research is her commitment to enhancing the lives of those living with MS. Her research focuses on the impact of adopting protective health behaviours to maximise lifelong brain health and she is parti ..read more

Linda Rowley, mental health consultant, delves into the complexities of mental health for carers, focusing on the overlooked experience of ambiguous loss. Linda discusses the importance of acknowledging these emotions, how to find meaning and hope, as well as the need for compassion and self-care for carers.  Linda is a wellbeing specialist with a professional interest in ambiguous loss. Linda draws on current research on ambiguous loss and wellbeing science coupled with her own lived experience. With qualifications in business wellbeing, positive psychology and the neuroscience of l ..read more

Linda Rowley, mental health consultant, delves into the complexities of mental health for carers, focusing on the overlooked experience of ambiguous loss. Linda discusses the importance of acknowledging these emotions, how to find meaning and hope, as well as the need for compassion and self-care for carers.  Linda is a wellbeing specialist with a professional interest in ambiguous loss. Linda draws on current research on ambiguous loss and wellbeing science coupled with her own lived experience. With qualifications in business wellbeing, positive psychology and the neuroscience of l ..read more

Check out the transcript here. Medical Gaslighting: Multiple Sclerosis’ Dirty Little Secret? Authored by Rachel Horne With thanks to Rachel Horne. Rachel Horne is a journalist and MS advocate. Rachel was diagnosed with MS in 2009, age 43. She has written extensively about the disease and has co-authored a number of papers published in The BMJ, Neurology, Nature Reviews Neurology and other prestigious journals. Rachel has also appeared on BBC’s Radio Four to talk about living with MS. In 2022, she set up the Rachel Horne Prize for Women's Research in MS – an international, annual award which re ..read more

In this podcast episode, Leif Lagesen, an accredited practicing dietitian and habit science practitioner, discusses the mechanisms behind building better habits. He explores the steps involved in building long-lasting habits and shares his tips on how small changes can lead to lasting lifestyle changes.  Leif is an accredited practicing dietitian, with dual degrees in Sport and Exercise and Nutrition Dietetics. He is highly energised by the fusion of behavioural change strategies with health technologies. His experience extends from working with national health coaching programs to clinic ..read more

Summer brings the risk of natural disasters, and preparing mentally is just as important as preparing physically. In this podcast, Catherine and Michael, MS Social Work Advisors discuss the importance of preparing mentally for crisis, and strategies to help people feel confident this coming summer season ..read more

For someone living with MS, the changes in sensory load and sensations can impact on one’s quality of life. In the Learn from Me series, MS Plus Peer support coordinator Kim chats with Mark who shares his experience of sensory symptoms since being diagnosed with MS. Mark discusses the challenges and offers helpful tips and strategies that help him manage every day. With thanks to Mark Elisha, MS Peer. Read the episode transcript here. Reach out for support: 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 fo ..read more