http://www.nationalmssociety.org/spotlight-emotions.asp

July, 2004
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society

In addition to its physical symptoms, MS can have a profound effect on one's emotions. People can have painful feelings about the disease as well as mood changes caused by the disease. Education, support, a healthy lifestyle, and medications and professional help when necessary, can make all the difference.

Common Emotional Reactions

Regardless of the kind of MS a person develops, emotional reactions are likely to be similar. Some emotions are...

• Fear
• Denial
• Anger
• Grieving
• Depression
• Guilt
• Read more on the emotional reactions to MS

People with MS should be aware that depression is common during the course of the disease.

Depression: An overview
 
Depression and MS

Depression: My Story

"The combination of medication and counseling helped me regain some control in my life and begin accepting my new reality."

Depression does not indicate weak character and it should not be considered something shameful that needs to be hidden.

Special Emotional Stress of MS

In addition to the emotional stresses that apply to anyone with a chronic illness, there are some characteristics of MS that create special emotional burdens. They include...

• Lack of a definite diagnosis
• The unpredictability factor
• The invisible symptom factor
• Making decisions about treatment
• Read more on the special emotional stress of MS

The person with MS is not the only person in the family and circle of friends who must adjust to a changed situation.

• Plaintalk: A Booklet About MS for Families

Hear husbands and wives, children and parents of people with MS, speaking frankly about the stresses and strains—and opportunities—of living with someone who has MS.
• Keep S'myelin: Children's feelings about MS

What You Can Do

Here are some points that contribute to successful living with MS...

• Relax
• Taming Stress in Multiple Sclerosis
• Managing Anger
• Meditation Primer
• Sleep Disorders and MS

• Find an exercise regimen that’s right for you
• Exercise as Part of Everyday Life
• Aquatics |  Tai Chi  |  Yoga
• MS and Mobility

• Get a doctor you feel comfortable with
• Choosing the Right Health-Care Provider
• MS Treatment Locations

• Connect with others and express yourself
• Join a self-help group
• Read stories of other people living the MS
• Write it down
• Contact your chapter about art programs

• Read more on how to live successfully with MS

“Early detection of neuropsychological and psychiatric symptom in multiple sclerosis” (Laura J. Julian, PhD) Determining the presence of cognitive and emotional symptoms early in the course of MS, to improve their detection and treatment

“Mindfulness-based stress management for people with MS and their caregivers” (Michael J. Baime, MD) Examining the effects of a stress reduction strategies in people with MS and their caregivers

“Mood dysfunction in MS: immunologic correlation and immunotherapy” (Toni M. Bauman, MD) Receiving training on the proper ways to conduct clinical treatment trials in MS

“Older individuals with MS: factors related to adjustment” (Terry Dilorenzo, PhD) Investigating the impact of aging on quality of life in individuals with MS
 

Copyright © 2004, The National Multiple Sclerosis Society