Stress and Multiple Sclerosis

Stress is an inevitable part of the human experience. Whether the stress be good or bad, the hard truth of the matter is that it will affect those with Multiple Sclerosis in the same way... 

Poorly.

Those with MS will learn that stress is a damning factor in the diagnosis. If one can learn how to deal with stress, not only will quality of life be improved, but brain lesions could be prevented or slowed (Boyles, 2012).

The most important factor of stress management is the ability to focus on what one can control. Let's face it - life throws curve balls constantly. However, we cannot be in control of these curve balls all the time. Sometimes, we strike out. Other times, we may hit a home run. What needs to be focused on is the ability to focus on the stress in which can be controlled - or the ability to hit a home run.

Foley (2012) explains that some of the stresses with MS include:

* diagnostic uncertainties
* unpredictability of MS
* the invisibility of some symptoms (which can cause people with MS to feel misunderstood by others)
* the visibility of some symptoms, particularly newly emerging ones (to which others may react

* before the person has had the time to adjust)
* the need to adjust and readjust to changing abilities
* financial stress and concerns about employment
* the presence - or possibility - of cognitive impairment
* loss of control (coming and going of unpredictable symptoms)
* the need to make decision about disease-modifying treatment and adjusting to the treatment if it is chosen
* other stress-related instances within life 

So, how can we cope with stress? Stachowiak (2007) explains:

Social Support: When a relapse occurs or symptoms worsen, you may need help to get to your doctor's office, fulfill your responsibilities or just make dinner. Cultivate your network of friends and family. Keep close ties with the people you can depend on. Let them know how important they are in your life. When you are feeling good, try to help them. 

 

Relaxation: Relaxation is the best way to combat stress in your body. When you are under stress, your body releases certain stress-related hormones. By relaxing, you can reverse this process. A breathing technique known as the relations response has been proved to reverse the effects of stress in your body. You can also learn mediation, yoga or gentle stretching. Anything that relaxes you is great - a lukewarm bath, candles, music or whatever works for you.

A book I was given by my brother taught me how to meditate. It is imperative to understand that meditation takes practice and patience. Most times, it is difficult for some to grasp and can be quite frustrating. It took me nearly six months just to have the ability to clear my mind. Even now, after three years, I still find myself having difficulties meditating. However, meditation and yoga have helped me in more ways than I thought.

Planning: We don't like to think about times when symptoms worsen, but having a plan in place will make everything go easier. Think about what would change in your life if you were having a relapse. Who would take you to the doctor? Who would watch the kids? What about work? Go through your typical day and consider how you could deal with each complication. Talk to the people you would need to depend on before you need them. Set aside a little 'relapse fund' for takeout, massages, and anything else you might need. Creating a relapse plan for MS can make a big difference when things are difficult.

Regardless of the stress, regardless if it is good or bad, one with MS must always remember that it will - in one way or another - work itself out. Though it is in human nature to stress, those with MS need to remember that stress can damage more than just an emotional or mental state...

References:

Boyles, S. (2012). Stress management may prevent MS brain lesions. Retrieved July 26, 2012, from http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=160193

Foley, F. (2012). Taming stress in Multiple Sclerosis. Retrieved July 26, 2012, from www.nationalmssociety.org/download.aspx?id=153

Stachowiak, J. (2007). Stress and Multiple Sclerosis. Retrieved July 26, 2012, from http://ms.about.com/od/livingwellwithms/a/ms_stress.htm