In addition to the physiological symptoms of MS, the condition also has far-reaching effects on an individual’s psychological makeup. Denial (refusing to believe it is possible), anxiety, fear, rage, feelings of guilt, mourning and severe mood swings are typical emotions associated with the illness.
Cognitive difficulties (for the most part minor) also stem from the characteristic disease process of MS. They include reduced intellectual proficiency, which can be expressed in the form of increased forgetfulness, disturbed concentration or reduced attention.
There are also stress factors resulting from MS that may affect you, such as: the uncertainty of the diagnosis; the unpredictable course of the disease; and ‘hidden’ symptoms, e.g. fatigue, and a feeling of weakness.
Coping with depression
It is true that people with MS are prone to depression and this is generally a result of inflammatory changes in the nervous system.
Depression can also be a reaction to the change in lifestyle that MS requires or be a side-effect of medication. Because of this, it is important to recognise any mood changes you may experience at an early stage and have them diagnosed accurately.
The support of partners, family or friends will undoubtedly help you to overcome mild depression. In certain circumstances, treatment with special psycho-pharmaceutical drugs may be appropriate. In the case of severe depression however, professional help in the form of psychotherapy or treatment with drugs should be sought. Sometimes talking to other people in an MS self-help group can also be beneficial.
It is important to remember that after any initial shock of being diagnosed with MS, and after coming to terms with the diagnosis, you will regain a positive attitude to life and maintain a happy, healthy lifestyle.
MS support groups
Support groups run by other people living with MS are a good way to get involved in a broader community of MS patients. They are generally not organised or conducted by professionals or doctors. The members of the group decide when, where and how often they meet.
These meetings will provide you with an opportunity to discuss everyday medical, psychological and social issues. It can often be helpful to know how other people are dealing with similar problems to yours: it gives a sense of reassurance, and the knowledge that ‘you are not alone’ in managing your life with MS, as you share experiences and discuss the best ways of dealing with common symptoms and drawbacks, relating to MS.
