MS is a disease of losses. The diagnosis of MS is frightening news that provokes a variety of emotional responses. While no two responses are alike, a number of emotional issues are commonly shared. Newly diagnosed persons with MS often grieve as if they have lost a loved one.

After diagnosis, there is a period of denial, followed by anger and frustration, then often a re-emergence of denial. Denial can be protective and adaptive, allowing people to function in the face of potentially overwhelming fear and anxiety. Gradually, most people do come to terms with their diagnosis and proceed with their lives in a healthy way. Because of the uncertainty over the future and feelings of loss, as well as neurologic changes caused by the disease itself, depression is very common among persons with MS. At least 50% will experience a major depressive episode at some point over the disease course.

Persons with MS are angry for many reasons. Persons with MS deal with two types of anger: 1) existential anger- anger about the injustice of having the disease and 2) instrumental anger- the anger that stems from everyday frustrations presented by MS e.g. fatigue, paralysis, relying on others for care. Anger often comes in waves for persons with MS. Anger can occur over how long it took for the diagnosis, when new symptoms appear and when old symptoms come back in new ways. Persons with MS are also angry because they feel that MS has turned them into receivers rather than givers. Anger can also be a cover for hidden feelings such as fear and helplessness.

Certain characteristics seem universal among people who learn to cope well with MS. The more of theses factors that are present in one’s life, the better a person will handle MS over a lifetime: Support: People who reach out for help report feeling strengthened and encouraged. Connectedness: A positive sense of well-being and protection from isolation comes from feeling connected to others. Sense of Humor: While there is nothing funny about MS, much of life is humorous, and laughter is a healing force that promotes a positive outlook and feelings of hope. Spirituality: Having a spiritual sense about one’s life fosters other positive traits, such as connectedness to others, positive self-perception, and optimism about one’s future. Openness: A willingness to talk openly about MS and its challenges is conducive to positive coping. Families who talk about MS are better able to live effectively with MS. [What Is Multiple Sclerosis?] [Living With Multiple Sclerosis] [How Nurses Can Help] [Main]