At Endometriosis UK, we know how important peer support can be for the mental wellbeing of those living with endometriosis.
"To finally be able to talk openly and honestly about how I felt to others who know exactly what I'm going through has seen me through many dark times." - Helpline caller
This Mental Health Awareness Week, we'd like to highlight our support services and the incredible volunteers who operate them. With the help of dedicated, trained volunteers, all with lived experience of endometriosis, we are able to connect those with endometriosis across the UK, providing peer support and a place to go to connect with a supportive community.
"I went to my local group and I've never felt that understood before. I'm so grateful." - Support Group attendee
We're pleased to have expanded our support services in recent months, with new groups in Scotland and Wales bringing our total number of active support groups to almost 60.
For those who are unable to access a group, or prefer to access support from home, please visit our Web Chat and Helpline pages for opening hours. Alternatively, you can connect with a vast community of others with endometriosis through HealthUnlocked, an online community forum moderated by trained volunteers.
"The lady I spoke to on the helpline will always be a hero to me." - Helpline caller
Our volunteers can talk through your issues and and consider options to overcome them or provide a friendly listening ear and vital peer support, though we ask that those accessing these services please be aware that volunteers are unable to provide medical advice or specialist mental health support and can only connect individuals with volunteers who can only talk about endometriosis based on their own experience. If you need medical advice, please contact your GP or endometriosis specialist.
The Samaritans offer 24 hour emotional support - in full confidence. If you're in distress and need someone to talk to, you can call 116 123.
