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At work with MS Balancing work and life

The government has been promoting good practice in balancing work and home life and a study found that 91% of employers agreed that people work best when they can balance their work and other aspects of their lives.

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"Help once or twice a week at home would make working life a bit easier."

"It's all about striking a balance between work, family and social life. Through trial and error you will find what works for you."

"In my case it is always a rest to go and sit down at work rather than being at home with my four lovely, lively children!"

"Social contact through colleagues is very important to me."

"Remember your home life and your health are important - work to live not live to work."

"Being able to work is a massive confidence boost. Doing the job better than those without MS is a great feeling!"


Looking after yourself at work

Looking after yourself is very important. A healthy well balanced diet and plenty of fluids are required to provide optimum energy levels. Poor nutrition can worsen existing symptoms such as fatigue and weakness.

Doing tasks more slowly or taking regular breaks can help to stop fatigue from building up. It may be possible to achieve more in a series of shorter chunks of work with periods of rest between. Using energy effectiveness strategies – thinking through tasks to see if there are ways of tackling them in a more energy efficient way - can also be useful. You might, for example, consider using taxis instead of driving or using public transport and Access to Work may be able to help with these costs.

"Always stop for lunch and eat something."

"Use your lunchtime to relax and save some energy, rather than doing the shopping."

"Try to avoid travelling in the rush hour."

"Ask about job share before accepting part time hours or change of job."

"Ensure regular breaks to help fatigue."

"Try to maximise energy by not doing unnecessary tasks ie prioritise."

"Do the most important work when you are strongest."

Next page - Looking after your self