We all respond differently to information about our health. After learning you have multiple sclerosis (MS), you might be stunned, scared, or even relieved to have answers that explain vision changes, dizziness, or tingling. No matter what you’re feeling, you’re not alone.
You can’t figure out everything about MS at once, and you don’t need to. Taking small steps to adjust to your new reality can be empowering in a time of major change. According to the American Psychological Association, active coping strategies like getting organized and making a plan for managing your health can improve mental and emotional well-being.
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Create Space for Multiple Sclerosis |
It’s normal to feel out of control when you first learn you have MS. You may have a pile of pamphlets crowding your kitchen table and a head full of questions that you forget the moment you set foot in a doctor’s office. You can begin to tame the chaos by implementing very simple organizational techniques that will help you create space for this new aspect of your life.
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Put Everything in One Place |
Storing all of your printed doctors’ visit summaries, pamphlets about MS, and other resources in a designated spot can help create some order and help you find information when you need it. You don’t need a fancy filing system — a kitchen drawer, an old binder, or simply an orderly stack on your bedside table can make a big difference. In addition to helping you keep track of important papers, there is evidence that controlling clutter is associated with better moods.
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Remember Your Questions |
Keep a list of questions about MS for your health care provider in a dedicated notebook or on your smartphone. Jot down your questions as you think of them, and bring your list to your appointments so you can remember your questions and write down the answers.
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Manage Your Appointments |
If you already rely on a digital calendar or paper planner to manage work and family obligations, stick with that method for managing your new doctors’ visits. If keeping a calendar is new to you, consider using what you’ve already got at home, such as a grocery list notepad or a piece of paper and a magnet on the fridge. You can also ask your doctor’s office about phone call or text message reminders that can help you keep on top of appointments.
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Track Your Medications |
Using an old-fashioned pill organizer is a great way to keep track of an oral medication regimen. You can also use a paper medication tracker. If you’re comfortable using a smartphone, consider downloading a medication tracking app to manage your treatment schedule.
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Reach Out for Support |
It can feel overwhelming to reach out after receiving an MS diagnosis, but you don’t have to face your diagnosis alone. Support from loved ones, your medical team, and other people with MS is crucial as you embark on a treatment plan and adjust to your new normal. There are a few basic steps you can take to start building your network of support.
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Multiple Sclerosis Communities |
You may not be ready to talk about your diagnosis with your loved ones right away. You may also not have time or feel comfortable joining an in-person support group. That’s OK. Your local MS Support Group can provide an ongoing emotional boost whenever you feel worried or overwhelmed about life with MS or want to celebrate a victory.
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Health Care Providers |
Many hospitals and medical practices offer resources that extend beyond your medical appointments. These may include chaplaincy services, health education classes, patient liaisons or nurse navigators, on-site support groups, and referrals to other services.
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Friends and Family |
Sharing your MS diagnosis with friends and family can be hard. They may be afraid and struggle to react in a helpful way. Try to remember that everyone is doing their best with difficult news. If you’re able, let your loved ones know how they can be most helpful to you during this time, whether that’s helping with household chores or offering a listening ear.
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Learn More About Multiple Sclerosis |
You might not have known much about MS before your diagnosis, but now you probably want to learn more. Your health care provider is a great resource for information, but you may also want to do your own research. Remember to be cautious of what you read online, especially if someone is offering a quick fix or selling a cure. You can always reach out to your health care provider or patient liaison if you have questions about something you’ve read.