Navigating life, MS and mental health

While MS is characterised by a range of physical symptoms, the mental health ramifications often remain invisible. Anxiety, depression, and cognitive changes are not uncommon, yet they frequently go unrecognised and under-treated. For many, the diagnosis of MS brings an emotional turmoil, triggering questions about the future, fears of disability, and the stress of adapting to a new way of living. Anxiety and depression are significantly more common in people with MS compared to the general population. There are lots of reasons for this, including both the psychological impact of living with a chronic illness and the direct effects of MS on the brain. Moreover, the unpredictability of symptoms can lead to a perpetual state of uncertainty and fear, exacerbating mental health challenges.

Managing other people’s reactions 

Managing other people’s reactions to your disease is also difficult. For many, appearing strong and resilient in the face of this adversity is the only way to help those around you adjust. This may not seem fair, particularly when you are the one directly affected by the news, but it is part and parcel of a life-changing diagnosis. 

Your family and friends are also receiving this news, if you choose to share it. In my experience, I knew living with a secret was not for me - I find secrets stressful beyond belief! I am a sharer and have never had a thought in my head I didn’t immediately express. I told everyone in my life straight away and naively thought that was that. Strangely though, the people I knew at 24 weren’t the only people I would ever meet, and so I have found myself ‘coming out’ again and again in the years since. This can be difficult, depending on both the audience and my mental state at the time, and I try to be kind to myself where possible. Sometimes I feel that my mental health status is robust enough to take on the world and other times I do not - learning that either is okay is part of growing up. 

Seek support 

If you are recently diagnosed, or even if you have been living with MS a long time, I would encourage you to seek professional mental health support. Even if you are as lucky as I was, with a really strong support system, having support outside your circle is invaluable, as it removes the guilt of “burdening” those you love with your worries. 

Sometimes, connecting with others in the same position as you can be very therapeutic, and luckily there is now amazing support both online and in person for this. 

Be forewarned though, many mental health professionals will recommend the usual lifestyle modifications, such as regular physical activity, a nutritious diet, and sufficient sleep, as these can have a profound impact on mental wellbeing. While MS might necessitate adjustments in the type or intensity of these, finding activities that are enjoyable and feasible can contribute significantly to mental health.

Living with MS is undeniably challenging, with effects far beyond the physical symptoms. Yet, with increasing awareness and resources dedicated to the intersection of MS and mental health, there is so much support available for those affected. By acknowledging the mental health aspect of MS and advocating for comprehensive care, we don’t just manage symptoms, but thrive despite them.

Further help

If you need further help or support with your mental health, here are some charities and organisations that can help: 

• Samaritans 
• Pieta House

Or for a list of privately registered psychotherapists in your area visit 

• IACP  (The Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) 
• IAHIP (Irish Association of Humanistic and Integrative Psychotherapy)

The views and opinions expressed here are those of individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Ireland. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of the information provided, the editor is not responsible for any error or inaccuracy contained herein.

If you have been affected by any of the content, please contact the MS Ireland Information Line on 0818 233 233.