Strengthening our commitment to trusted lifestyle information

Back in January, we announced that Overcoming MS had become a certified Trusted Information Creator through the PIF TICK scheme. The PIF TICK is the UK’s only  independently assessed quality mark for trusted health information. 

This was an important milestone in our commitment to providing clear, accessible and evidence-based information for people affected by multiple sclerosis. 

We are now delighted to launch our newly updated Managing Stress page, the first Overcoming MS information resource to display the PIF TICK logo. 

A reminder: what is the PIF TICK? 

The PIF TICK is operated by the Patient Information Forum, a UK charity dedicated to improving the quality of health information. 

To achieve certification, organisations must demonstrate that they follow a robust and consistent process when creating health information. This includes using reliable, up-to-date evidence; involving users; writing clearly and accessibly; being transparent about how information was developed; and providing opportunities for feedback. 

The PIF TICK applies to the process we use to produce information rather than representing independent approval of every individual statement or recommendation. Displaying the logo gives readers confidence that the resource has been developed according to a recognised, independently assessed standard. 

You can learn more about the PIF TICK and its criteria on the Patient Information Forum website. 

Introducing Managing Stress page 

Our new Managing Stress page replaces the previous Stress Management and Meditation page. 

We changed the name because the new page takes a broader and more flexible approach. Meditation can be a useful way to manage stress for some people, but it is not the only option -and it may not be right for everyone. 

The new page explores a range of approaches, helping people find strategies that suit their needs, circumstances and preferences. These may include: 

• Recognising personal sources and signs of stress 

• Making time for rest and activities they enjoy 

• Connecting with friends, family or the wider MS community 

• Being physically active in a way that works for them 

• Trying breathing exercises, mindfulness or meditation 

• Seeking professional support when stress becomes difficult to manage 

The emphasis is on taking small, manageable steps rather than trying to remove every source of stress or follow a single prescribed approach. 

Clearer information about stress and MS 

The updated resource explains what stress is, how it can affect physical and emotional wellbeing and what current research tells us about stress and MS. 

We also recognise the importance of communicating the limitations of the evidence. Research into stress and MS is complex, and it is not always possible to establish a direct relationship between stress, symptoms and disease activity. 

The page therefore avoids suggesting that stress causes MS or that people are responsible for changes in their condition because they have not managed stress successfully. Stress is a normal part of life, and experiencing it is not a personal failure. 

Instead, the page focuses on the potential benefits of supporting emotional wellbeing and developing practical ways to respond to difficult or stressful situations. 

The first of our updated pages 

Managing Stress is the first page we’re updating through our PIF TICK-certified process. 

Over the coming months, we will review and update others, like physical activity, vitamin D or diet. This will include reviewing the evidence, making our sources and recommendations clearer, improving accessibility and ensuring the information supports informed, individual choices. 

This is an ongoing commitment. Health information and scientific evidence continue to develop, so our resources will be regularly reviewed and updated. Feedback from people who use our information will remain an important part of that process. 

Explore our new resource and discover practical, evidence-based ways to support your wellbeing.