Being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) can be overwhelming, but many people with this condition lead full, meaningful lives with the right care, mindset and support. Living well with MS means finding ways to adapt, connect and thrive.
Understanding MS can help you feel empowered. Ask your health care team the questions you have about your diagnosis, the type of MS you have, your treatment options and your outlook. Their answers can help you make decisions about your treatment and your future.
Tips for managing day-to-day life with MS
These tips can help you reduce and manage the effects of MS symptoms:
- Lean on your family and friends: The people who are closest to you are an important source of support.
- Take your medication: It’s important to take your medicine as directed. If you’re having trouble remembering to take your medication or dealing with side effects, talk to your health care team.
- Conserve your energy: Pace yourself and prioritize your tasks to help manage fatigue. Rest when you need to.
- Follow healthy habits: Eat a balanced diet, stay active with approved exercise and get enough sleep.
- Track your symptoms: Keep a journal of symptoms to share with your care team. That way, they can adjust your treatment plan to manage symptoms better.
- Revamp your living space: Modifying your home can help you stay safe and as independent as possible.
- Find solutions: Explore workplace accommodations, assistive devices and transportation support to stay independent.
Emotional and mental health support
Being diagnosed with MS and living with the condition can affect your mood, stress levels and well-being. It can help to try:
- Counseling and therapy: Talking to a mental health professional can help you process the emotional ups and downs of life with MS.
- Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Practices like meditation, deep breathing or yoga may help you lower your stress and focus better.
Staying connected to care
Getting the care you need can help you keep symptoms and flares under control and slow the pace of the disease. These tips can help:
- Regular check-ins: Stay in touch with your neurologist and care team so you can closely monitor symptoms and how well treatment is working. Many providers offer virtual appointments to make it easier to stay on track without the time commitment and effort of an in-person visit.
- Care coordination: Occupational therapists, physical therapists or social workers can help support your goals. Your primary care provider can help you make sure you’re getting the care you need.
- Clinical trials: Talk to your health care providers about enrolling in clinical trials that could give you access to MS treatments that are in development.
Finding your MS community
Connecting with experts, advocates and other people who have MS can help you build strength and feel informed. Look to these areas:
- Advocacy and education organizations: Groups like the National Multiple Sclerosis Society provide resources, events and updates on research.
- Support groups: Join local or virtual groups for people living with MS. Connecting with others who understand life with MS can give you comfort and practical tips.
- Caregiver support: Your family members and friends may want to connect with tools and community for supporting a loved one with MS.
Care for multiple sclerosis at Banner Health
At Banner Health, we understand that living with multiple sclerosis means you’re facing physical and emotional challenges that impact your well-being.
Our neurologists, care coordinators, mental health professionals and physical, occupational and speech therapists will work with you to create a plan that treats your symptoms, helps keep the disease from getting worse quickly, and cares for your mental and emotional health. Connect with a Banner Health expert to learn more about our expert MS care.
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