* "QUITE often JUST talking about HOW you feel .. " !!

Quite often just talking about how you feel .. can be liberating. Trying to cope alone will only cause more stress and anxiety. IF you don't feel like talking to family and friends, consider making contact with an MS Australia - ACT/NSW/VIC Peer Support Volunteer. You can ask to be matched with someone who is in similar circumstances and will understand how you are feeling. Call MS Connect on 1800 042 138 or email msconnect@msaustralia.org.au to find out more.

WHEN your'e heading out and about, peace of mind about your current circumstances will make all the difference. CONSIDER calling ahead to your Destination - Restaurant, Hairdresser, Shops - to ensure there are adequate facilities!

The National Public Toilet Map shows the location of 14,000 public toilet facilities across Australia. The website, http://www.toiletmap.gov.au/ , (or phone 1800 990 646), provides a Trip-planner and the capacity to plan toilet breaks for short and long journeys. You can search for toilets by Postcode, Town or Suburb, or near specific addresses and locations. ACCESS to the toilet map is available from compatible Mobile Phones, and a new Toilet Map application can be downloaded for iPhones.

People with a *disability can also purchase their own 'universal' key from their local Member of the Master Locksmiths Association to access some public toilets.
* Master Locksmiths Association - http://www.masterlocksmiths.com.au/ or phone 1800 810 698 - for a 'universal' key to public toilets. *Those with mobility difficulties and/or those who have written Authority from a Doctor, a Disability Organisation, a Local Council or Community Health Centre, or the Centre Manager or Owner of a Building with an accessible toilet on site, may be eligible for a 'universal' key.

(Often people with bladder problems/inconsistencies try to drink less for fear of urinating too frequently. This can make matters worse and result in constipation. In addition, urine becomes concentrated and irritates the Bladder, causing more frequent "passing of water". It's important to drink 1.5 - 2 litres of fluid everyday (preferably Water), even if you have bladder problems/inconsistencies.)

http://www.bladderbowel.gov.au/ - the Australian Government website dedicated to bladder and bowel Health.

*Independent Living Centres - http://www.ilcaustralia.org/ or phone 1300 885 886 or (02) 6205 1900 in the ACT - view their comprehensive range of products to assist with day-to-day living!

*Department of Veterans' Affairs - http://www.dva.gov.au/ or phone 133 254 - for more information on the Rehabilitation Appliances Program for the veteran community.
('Intouch'.)