Do you have a sibling with SMS? Would you like to connect with another person who also has a sibling with SMS to share your experiences? We can help.
The PRISMS SMS Sibling Connection Program connects adult siblings (ages 18+) of individuals with SMS with trained peer supporters who can share common experiences and offer support.
How does the program work?
The PRISMS SMS Sibling Connection Program is here to support you! This FREE peer-to-peer phone or video/virtual support program helps ensure that you have the information and support you need.
PRISMS will match you with a SMS Sibling Peer Supporter. This is another individual who also has a sibling with SMS. You can then contact this trained sibling and engage in one-on-one in person, phone, or virtual conversations and build a helpful sibling connection.
How is this program helpful?
Siblings of individuals with SMS have unique needs, and it can be difficult to connect with other siblings due to the rarity of this diagnosis. While group or other online supports are wonderful, many siblings prefer to connect directly with another sibling with shared experiences. The PRISMS SMS Sibling Connection Program provides the one-on-one supports that siblings have requested in addition to other supports available through PRISMS.
- This program seeks to connect siblings of individuals with SMS and allows siblings to:
- Share their personal experiences about SMS and benefit from others’ experiences and perspectives.
- Explore questions and challenges that are unique among siblings of individuals with SMS.
- Discuss ideas, goals, and needs in a private, comfortable environment.
- Brainstorm strategies to assist with sibling relationships, address caregiver needs, and implement self-care strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can participate in this program?
All adult siblings (ages 18+) of individuals with SMS are encouraged to enroll in the program. You need to be able to communicate in English to participate.
If you are a teenager who has a sibling with SMS and would like to participate in our mentorship program, please click here to learn more and enroll in the program.
What kinds of questions can I ask?
Feel free to ask questions about support, resources, and guidance on your daily life with SMS and needs you make have for the future. SMS Peer Supporters are here to offer support and advice to help you with the complexities and unique experiences associated with having a sibling with SMS. They cannot provide medical or mental health advice or guidance.
Do I pick my SMS Peer Supporter?
We will review your application and match you to a well-trained SMS Peer Supporter. This person can address most of your questions and provide helpful support and advice.
Should I have a set of questions ready?
You certainly can if you want, but it is okay if you are not sure exactly what you want to ask. Many times, SMS Sibling Peer Supporters know what to ask to start the conversation, and the two of you can decide what to discuss from there.
How many times should I expect to talk to my SMS Peer Supporter?
The number of times you meet/talk is completely up to you. Your SMS Sibling Peer Supporter will be available to talk as many times as you would like to provide the support you need. You can talk with your peer supporter about how often or how many times you want to meet.
How do I enroll in the SMS Adult Sibling Connection Program?
Click here to provide your information, and we will match you with a SMS Sibling Peer Supporter.