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Tips for living with MS - maintaining a positive outlook

There is no denying that living with MS can be difficult, frustrating and at times, frightening, particularly when you are first diagnosed. In the initial stages, it is natural to grieve for what you have lost. Over time, people find ways to adapt and come to terms with the changes that MS can bring, developing effective coping strategies which allow them to maintain a positive outlook and to live full lives.

Here are some tips from people who have learnt to live with MS:

  • The period after diagnosis is bound to be difficult. Try not to panic. Take your time to come to terms with your condition. Avoid making important decisions until you have adjusted to your new circumstances
  • Don’t give in to MS. Accept that your life is going to be different but it is most definitely not over!
  • Don’t dwell on the past and try not to worry about what may or may not happen in the future. Live your life for who you are now and devote all your energy and determination to exploring the full potential of what you have
  • When you feel ready, arm yourself with as much knowledge as possible. This may help to allay some of your fears. For example, many people believe that everyone who has MS will end up in a wheelchair, which is far from the truth
  • A good sense of humour can help to get you through difficult times. As one person with MS said, “A sense of humour should be given out when we are diagnosed and then put on a repeat prescription at very regular intervals”
  • Keep a video of a favourite comedy programme or film on hand for times when you feel down. Laughter is a great tonic
  • Be honest and open about how you feel. There is no need to put on a brave face all the time. If you go through a bad patch and life feels like an enormous struggle, talk to someone, be it family, friend, doctor or nurse. It really does help to share your feelings
  • Ask for help and support when you need it, whether at home or in public – most people have no idea what it is like to have MS and need to be told how they can help
  • Take each day as it comes. Try not to despair if you are having a really bad day – the chances are that tomorrow will be easier
  • If you are prone to mood swings, warn your family and friends so they know what to expect!
  • If you are feeling down, give yourself treats to keep your spirits up. Many people find that it helps their self-esteem to make a special effort with their appearance, even if they are feeling poorly
  • Set yourself a challenge to achieve each day, however small
  • Try not to let MS rule your life, although this is easier said than done! Keep in touch with people who do not have MS and don’t allow yourself to be defined as an MS ‘sufferer’. You are a person who happens to have MS – it does not change the essence of who you are
  • Don’t allow yourself to feel isolated. It can be really helpful to talk to other people with MS, either face to face, on the phone or over the Internet. Remember, you are not alone
  • Never feel ashamed of having MS – it is a condition that you happen to have and not something you’ve brought on yourself
  • Be realistic and know your limitations, but don’t aim too low! MS is not an excuse for ducking out of life! Concentrate on what you can do, not what you can’t

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