Newly diagnosed

If you or someone you know has just been diagnosed with MS this is probably a time of confusion and concern.

We have one very important message for you: Don't Panic.

The important thing to realise is that you don't have to deal with this alone. Support and information are available to you.

If you need further information or wish to contact a Field Worker, then get in touch with your nearest regional MS society or contact us.

Register now online for Knowledge is Power! our free, at-home educational series for people newly diagnosed with multiple sclerosis within the last 12 months, their families, and support network.

The following information is taken from the Beginner’s Guide to MS, our publication for the newly diagnosed or those seeking to understand more about MS.  We recommend you read it.

You can read it page by page on your screen, or download your own copy and print it out. Hard copies are available from your nearest regional society office, from a Field Worker, or contact us.

Adjusting to the Diagnosis

In coming to terms with a diagnosis of MS one of the most difficult aspects is its unpredictability. Receiving a diagnosis of MS can alter the way you look at life. It may make you feel that you have lost control or that your future is uncertain. Don’t despair. Everyone goes through stages of adjusting to major life changes and these processes are entirely normal, although the intensity of feeling and length of those stages will vary from person to person.

Some people will feel relief at finally having a diagnosis. Finally they will have an explanation for the puzzling and sometimes frightening symptoms they have been experiencing. More than that they may be relieved to find their symptoms are not caused by a life threatening disease.

Others may react differently, becoming fearful of what life will hold. Do they give up their job, alter any plans to start a family or have more children? They may fear the reaction of their partner and family and grieve for their perceived altered relationships. All these feelings are very natural and will become less overwhelming with time and support.

Spreading the News

Don’t be afraid to tell those closest to you about your MS; they will be your strongest supporters. Acknowledge though that they will pass through their own stages of acceptance, just as you will, so try to also be aware of their needs. If you share your feelings about having MS you will find it easier to accept their support and you can grow together in strength and understanding.

Children should be told at a level they can understand and this may need to be repeated and expanded on as they grow older. It’s very important that children are reassured that their behaviour has not caused your MS and that it’s not contagious - they can’t catch it from you. You’ll find children tend to be very accepting and love you for who you are.

The same can be said for friends. They can do what they do best, be supportive and loving when they know what’s going on. They may’ve witnessed your symptoms and be already worried about the cause. Remember, everyone’s imagination is almost invariably worse that the reality so put those closest to you out of their misery and confide in them. It’s the relationships in our lives that get us through not only the good times but the difficult, as well.

You may have concerns about telling your employers, worrying it could affect your employment. Remember, they are obliged to respect your privacy and not tell others about it. By law you cannot be fired just because you have developed an illness. In many cases employers are very understanding and with consultation may make small but significant changes to your work environment to allow you to keep working productively.

Sources of Support

You can contact with your regional society field worker who can offer support and information. They can give advice on all matters concerning MS and arrange social groups, exercise classes, support meetings and referrals. The range of services offered varies between regional societies. Meeting people through the MS Society can be very reassuring, as you may be surprised to find how many people have MS that you were unaware of. A lot of people with MS have ‘invisible’ symptoms and lead normal lives. Some people find support groups helpful as an occasion where they can share their experiences and learn how others deal with MS.

Also, be sure to go to our Who is there to help you? page for further sources of support and information.