Friends/Family
What’s the best way to deal with friends/family thinking that you are just being lazy or making excuses, when you have heat issues and energy issues? I don’t think they fully understand MS & it drives me crazy trying to make them understand.
, this is a great question and the answer can really vary, based on your friends and family. Some people are willing to read articles you might share with them on your social media. Others may not be open to that. Also, when famous people like Selma Blair share about living with MS, that can kind of help others understand what you may be experiencing. She has done some recent interviews on her MS and other life issues. Maybe your friends and family would be willing to watch those? Although, I know when celebrities seem to have an easier time with MS, it can lead to unfair comparisons. "So-and-so does juts fine with their MS? Why do you have such a hard time with yours?"
There is a saying in many communities like this one -- "You don't get it 'til you get it." And I think that's pretty true. There's only so much a person without the condition can truly understand. That said, I would hope your loved ones would be open to learning about MS, understanding, and being more empathetic towards you.
I thought you might find this piece relatable -- https://multiplesclerosis.net/living-with-ms/advice-for-family-and-friends. And this one as well -- https://multiplesclerosis.net/living-with-ms/frustrated-friends-family-impact-comments.
It can be hard to help the people around you understand a complex condition like MS. But, it can be worth it when it works out! I hope your family and friends start listening to you and understanding that MS is a very unpredictable condition.
Thanks for reaching out and I hope this information helps!
Best, Erin, MultipleSclerosis.net Team Member.
