Friday, August 13, 2010

The Psychological Impact of Multiple Sclerosis

A friend shared this info with me and I thought I should post it.

From the Cleveland Clinic Online Health Chats:

The Pschological Impact of Multiple Sclerosis
Wednesday, August 18, 2010 - 12 Noon (Eastern Time)

Do you have Multiple Sclerosis and find yourself depressed because of the challenges it presents? You are not alone. Up to half of all people who suffer from Multiple Sclerosis also show signs of being depressed, or having psychological problems, at some point during their illness.

To read the whole announcement, click here.


I know I have had low periods during the course of my illness and I am fortunate enough to have not suffered much if any disability. And they don't mention it in the announcement, but MS itself can be a direct cause of psychological problems, I believe.

I once had a relapse in where I suffered severe panic attacks about 5 times a week. A couple of them were so severe that I actually went to the ER thinking I was having a heart attack. Of course I walked out before I was ever seen or called because they wore off within 30 minutes, but I finally had to be put on a low dose of Xanax to be taken as needed for the 3 months that relapse lasted. After that, the panic attacks just faded away and I haven't had one now in 3 years. (knocking wood)

So I know that even if there is little emotional impact from your condition and that you might be handling it well, you could still fall victim to depression simply from your medication or your MS itself.

Have hope! There is light at the end of the tunnel and NO it's not always a train. Seek help and quit suffering. Things CAN be better. I'm living proof. 3 years ago I was suicidal and saw nothing to look forward to when I was relapsing every 3 months. Then I got in this study and my life was turned around. I look back now and I'm so glad I didn't let that depression swallow me whole and do something stupid.

So go check out the chat. Maybe you or the one you love can find some bit of something to take away from it.