Learning to Cope with MS
Many people with MS describe themselves as feeling alone, like they're rowing a tiny boat in a giant ocean. This can often lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, which, if unchecked, can turn into depression. In fact, according to researchers, MS patients are up to four times more likely to be diagnosed with depression than people without MS.
Learning to cope is critical for your mental and emotional wellness. Identifying your own emotions and then discovering ways that you can identify and understand negative feelings and thoughts, but then focus on the positive is a great way to ease the anxiety that comes with multiple sclerosis. No two people cope in the same way, but here are some tips you can use to help better manage living with your disease.
Talk to a Loved One
Whether it's your spouse, a family member or a close friend, talking is one of the easiest and most effective ways to ease the emotional burden that can weigh on those dealing with MS. It's important to be open and honest with your feelings, even the unpleasant ones. People are often nervous with sharing their deepest worries. But most times, they discover that people are willing to listen when they know that you are reaching out to them for support.
Start a Journal
A diary. A notebook. A blog. No matter where you keep your thoughts, writing them down is a great way to relieve some of the worry and stress building up in your mind. And just as it's important to write down your negative feelings, it's equally important to write down your positive feelings. Then go back and reread your previous entries to remind you that things do change. The MS ActiveSource logbook can also be a great way to keep track of your thoughts online too.
Talk to Someone with MS
There are over 400,000 people in the US living with MS. No matter what you're feeling, you are not alone. There are many MS support groups that provide an outlet for people with MS to talk, share and connect with one another. ActiveVoices is a peer mentor program that helps people with MS connect with a Mentor who may understand what you're going through.
Get Professional Help
If you are experiencing depression for more than two weeks, it is important that you do not let it go unchecked. Talk to your healthcare provider about getting the help you need, which may include therapy as well as medication. There are many licensed professionals who have expertise in MS and depression. Professional therapy can help when just talking with friends and family is not enough. Talk to your healthcare team about any medications you may be taking as depression may be a side effect.
