The shock
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease that cannot be cured. Therefore, it is quite understandable that nearly all patients experience a shock when they are informed of the diagnosis. Their entire life is turned upside down. Nothing is the same after one has come to know the diagnosis. A thousand questions whirl around in one's mind: can I realise my future plans at all? Will my partner stay with me? Can I keep my job? Can one have a career and a job despite multiple sclerosis (MS)?
Every patient has to find the answers to these questions on his own or her own. You will receive help and support from MS counselling offices, MS nurses, self-help organisations and your doctor. Inform yourself as thoroughly as possible about MS and its potential consequences. The more you know, the more realistic your expectations will be with regard to your disease, and the better you will be able to estimate your situation correctly and make the right decisions in life. Knowledge also helps to overcome unnecessary fears.
A shock for your environment as well
Once you have overcome the initial shock you should think about how far you wish to inform your partner, family, friends or colleagues at work about the new situation.
As the symptoms of MS are initially not always visible to other people, the question arises as to whether one should confide in one's family and friends at all. This decision is, of course, entirely yours. However, various symptoms may be visible to your friends and family. Therefore it is probably best to talk about your disease from the very start. This can make your daily life easier and rule out misunderstandings.
But do not immediately expect complete understanding from your environment. Even for partners, children, family members and friends, your diagnosis initially is a shock. They also have to first learn to deal with the new situation. A chronic disease in a family member has consequences for the rest of the family. Therefore, it is quite normal for family members or close friends to wonder how your disease will affect their future lives.
Help may be undesirable at times
Try to find out how much help your environment can offer and especially what type of help you really need and how much help you can accept.
Too much help may be restrictive and render you more helpless than you actually are due to MS.
It is very important to avoid unnecessary burdens on you or your family members. This includes hobbies, leisure activities and vacations. A balance between rest and activity is very important for one and all. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is not a transient crisis but a disease that will accompany you for the rest of your life.
MS Diagnosis - Helpline
A cost-free helpline is available for patients who have questions or seek advice in processing the diagnosis.
Information, support, competence for patients
A cost-free offer for patients with recently diagnosed MS.
MS Diagnosis - Helpline: 0800 336600 (available on Tuesdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.)
Go to "Talking about problems"
