MS Impacts Those with MS and Those Around You

Those of us with MS are surely impacted every day of our lives, more so for some of us and less for others. Bottom line, MS turns our day-to-day upside down and challenges us, no matter what we try to accomplish.

As they say, MS is a silent illness. What some don't always realize is MS can be a silent disrupter for all of those who are involved in our lives. I know you’re thinking this topic is a double-edged sword and yes, it is on both sides of the fence. I’ll share my experiences and what I have heard from others.

Communication with others is key

All of us face different challenges depending on the type of MS you have, the symptoms, and physical impacts. Because of what we deal with, day-to-day emotions, at least for me, can change.

As difficult as it is for us, it can also be hard on our family not knowing how we are feeling, if we are upset, anxious, depressed, or how they can help. With that, I think it is critical for us to communicate with those in our lives to help them understand.

But it's not always easy

I’ll admit expressing how we feel isn’t easy. I might say “feeling great or life is good,” even though that might not be the case. I sometimes hide how I am feeling. Not wanting to add additional stress on family, I keep moving on no matter what.

What I sometimes failed to realize is those around me can tell from day-to-day how I am feeling through my actions, how I look, and react.

Trying to be more upfront

Since I realized this, I have changed my approach and frankly am more upfront about how I feel. Since I deal with several symptoms, I’ll be specific as to what I’m dealing with, as well as how it is impacting me physically. It may cause concerns, but it prepares those around us for what to expect.

Believe me, it does cause concern on my part how I am impacting my family emotionally and the stress it might add. Keep in mind, though, communicating what you feel and what to expect may actually reduce the stress, simply because those around you can know what may come.

How we impact each others' lives

Everyone has an impact on others’ lives, whether you’re healthy or not healthy. I think the effects and challenges depend on how we communicate and interface with each other. There can be depression, stress, anxiety, and uncertainty of what life’s future holds. Adding to these challenges, with MS, is the overall life changes from being able to live life to its fullest at the beat of a drum to having to plan everything you do.

I can verify MS has made a big difference in my life and will day-in and day-out forever. I think how we plan for and look forward to the years to come can make all the difference in our world.

Thanks again for taking the time to read my journey along the day-to-day road of life. I hope this might ease your stress level and help navigate the road ahead. I look forward to hearing about your journey and how you handle these challenges, so we all can learn from each other. Until the next time I wish you the best ahead.