Living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) often feels like walking through life on uncertain ground. One day, you might feel in control, and the next, the unpredictable symptoms of MS can turn your world upside down. The constant unknowns—whether it’s how your body will respond or what the future holds—can create stress that feels overwhelming at times. But while you can't always predict what's next, there are ways to manage the stress and uncertainty that come with living with MS.
Acknowledge the Uncertainty
The first step to coping with the unknown is to acknowledge it. Trying to deny the uncertainty or constantly fight it can drain your energy. Accepting that you can’t control everything doesn’t mean giving up; it means letting go of what you can’t change and focusing on what you can. Also, you know, living in denial is no way to live.
Focus on What You Can Control
While you may not be able to will away the progression of MS, there are many aspects of life that you can manage. Taking charge of your health, setting routines, and practicing self-care can provide a sense of stability. Establish healthy habits, from diet and exercise to getting enough rest, and work with your healthcare team to ensure you’re doing everything possible to manage your condition.
This needs to be said...
I blog about MS all the time. I live with MS every day but that does not mean that my word is law. Blogs like mine are great to spread awareness but please, get your diehard facts from reputable sources like The National MS Society and the MS International Foundation (MSIF).
Case in point: Shortly after my diagnosis I did what most people do, scour the internet for information about the disease. Upon my search I stumbled across an article that, for the most part, if I eat leafy greens and only leafy greens, my MS will be cured.
That sounds promising! But, be careful with some information you find on the internet, misinformation spreads like wildfire. There (currently) is no cure for MS, and while changing your diet may help manage symptoms, it will not magically make the disease go away.
Develop Coping Strategies
Finding ways to cope with stress is essential. For some, mindfulness and meditation help bring a sense of calm, while others may find solace in hobbies, creative outlets, or spending time with loved ones. Stress management tools like deep breathing exercises, journaling, or even just taking a walk can help you deal with moments of anxiety.
For me, what has worked so far are some hobbies that my wife and I can do together. We get to spend time together and do things we love at the same time.
If you've been following my blog you already know one of those hobbies: Shooting. It's a great stress reliever, not to mention it's really fun, and a great skill to learn. The other one, LEGO. I have fine motor issues in my non-dominant hand and building LEGO helps my work on those muscles while simultaneously helps me calm down. It's quite therapeutic.
Stay Connected
Isolation can make the stress of living with MS feel even more intense. Stay connected to your support system, whether that’s family, friends, or an MS support group. Talking about your fears and uncertainties can lighten the mental load. Plus, there are many support groups out there for people living with MS (or any other condition), hearing from others who are in similar situations can remind you that you're not alone in this journey.
Create a Flexible Plan
While it's impossible to plan for every scenario, creating a flexible plan, even one you make up in your mind, can help ease some of the stress. Talk to your healthcare provider about what to expect and create strategies to handle potential challenges. Having a plan in place, even if it changes, can help you feel more in control.
Practice Gratitude
It's easy to get caught up in the "what ifs" and focus on the negative aspects of MS. Practicing gratitude—whether through daily journaling or simply taking a moment each day to reflect on what’s going well—can shift your mindset. It won’t take away the uncertainty, but it can help you find peace in the present moment.
There is also another side to this... BE NICE TO PEOPLE. Yes, all caps, it's going against my basic rules but, seriously, be nice. I often get caught up in the negatives, or I'm struggling with something and I'll snap at someone (or something, yes I yell at inanimate objects sometimes) without realizing it. It's not their fault that you are going through what you are going through, just be nice. If someone offers to lend a hand, take it and say thank you. Apologize if you are being rude or are in a mood. It happens to the best of us, own it.
Seek Professional Help
If the stress becomes too much, don't hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can provide strategies to manage anxiety and help you work through fears about the future. If stress is interfering with your quality of life, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Embrace the Present
While the unknown is an inevitable part of living with MS, how you respond to it makes all the difference. By focusing on what you can control, staying connected, and using stress management techniques, you can navigate the uncertainties of MS with resilience. Embrace the present, because it’s the one thing you can control—and find strength in knowing that, whatever comes next, you have the tools to face it head-on.
Comments