When dealing with an MS diagnosis, it's natural to need some alone time. However, it's important not to cut yourself off from the people close to you. The support of your family and friends can make a big difference in how you live with and manage your MS.
One way to connect with others is to find an MS Mentor—someone who may understand the challenges you are facing and can help answer your questions. MS Mentors can help you with issues like getting started on treatment, learning to live with MS, managing symptoms, and communicating with loved ones.
Being Open About MS
Living with MS can be challenging. You may find it helpful to be open about your feelings. The people in your life can often tell when you are experiencing stress. Talking to your spouse, family, and other loved ones can make you both feel better.
You should think about who you want to talk to about your diagnosis, and what you want to tell them. Also consider your own comfort level about disclosing your MS. We are all individuals: some people may wish to be very open about their diagnosis, while others may want to share with only close family and/or friends. Whatever you decide, keep your audience in mind. You may want to explain MS differently depending on whether the person you're speaking to is a spouse, child, parent, friend, or coworker.
Staying Committed
Although it is a challenging condition, staying committed can help you manage your MS:
- Get support from your loved ones and the MS community
- Stay informed about MS with resources like this website
- Start therapy early and stay on it
Experts agree that starting MS therapy soon after diagnosis is important. If you have MS and aren't currently on therapy, talk to your doctor.
More about treating MS early
