Taming Stress in Multiple Sclerosis - National Multiple Sclerosis ...

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Reopening the issues Every time we meet someone new, or start a new job, we have to find out where we can assert ourselves, and where we need to make changes or compromises. People with MS often negotiate and renegotiate as symptoms come and go, particularly if they alter abilities. In telling others how you feel, always mention that MS is changeable and that flexibility in expectations (yours and theirs) is key. Leave the door open. This is more than just stress! Depression is a common disorder that is generally related to a chemical imbalance. About 19 million Americans experience a clinical depression each year, and there is evidence that people with MS have an even greater incidence of depression than the general population. In MS, depression may be associated with the biology of the disease. Although depression is a serious illness, it can be treated effectively. Diagnosis and treatment require a professional therapist who is experienced with MS patients or one who is willing to work with your MS professional. Special problems with stress, depression, and MS Some of the symptoms of stress are remarkably similar to symptoms of depression and some mimic or overlap symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Depression is very common in MS. The research shows that more than fifty 10 TAMING STRESS IN MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS
percent of people with MS will experience significant depression at some point along the way. In addition, people who are taking an inter-feron beta medication (Avonex®, Betaseron®, or Rebif®) may be at even greater risk for depression (see box below). Depression causes people to lose interest in their usual activities. In addition, they often experience five or more of the symptoms listed on page 12, to some degree. (Notice that symptoms such as fatigue or inability to concentrate can also be symptoms of MS.) If you, or those close to you, think that you have become depressed or if you have had five or more of these symptoms continue for more than two weeks, talk to your physician or to a mental health professional. Each of the interferon medications used to treat multiple sclerosis carries a warning that the medication should be used with caution by persons who have a history of depression. If you are taking an interferon medication for your MS, have a history of depression or experience significant changes in mood, please talk with your doctor. STAYING WELL 11
Page 1 and 2: Taming Stress in Multiple Sclerosis
Page 3 and 4: Taming Stress in Multiple Sclerosis
Page 5 and 6: Stress and MS Having any chronic il
Page 7 and 8: We all have finite reservoirs of co
Page 9 and 10: Common Signs of Stress Emotional si
Page 11: your illness and the difficulties y
Page 15 and 16: Cognitive impairment and stress Unt
Page 17 and 18: ook with you if waiting may be nece
Page 19 and 20: questions you want to ask, what que
Page 21 and 22: There is no one right way to relax.
Page 23 and 24: Clear your mind The “Clear Your M
Page 25 and 26: 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Do two or three c
Page 27 and 28: Progressive muscle relaxation Progr
Page 29 and 30: 8. 9. Move your head slowly backwar
Page 31 and 32: Tai chi Tai chi involves deep breat
Page 33 and 34: Further reading Multiple Sclerosis:
Page 35 and 36: The National Multiple Sclerosis Soc

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