Being diagnosed with MS can be a shock. Everyone reacts differently, some people find relief in knowing what is causing their symptoms, and others can think their life will never be the same. You may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about your future or worried that you won’t be able to manage medication, health appointments and other challenges that come with having a chronic disease.
It is possible to shift your thinking from the idea that life will be worse with MS, to thinking that although life will be harder, it won’t be worse. This is known as realistic optimism, which is the ability to balance the negative and the positive in situations and circumstances.
A psychologist can help you learn how to live with MS with optimism. They can also help you to work through your thoughts, emotions and feelings. Medicare can cover some of the costs of psychology sessions.
AU-20021. March 2022.
Listen to Clare Reilly and Dr Sally Shaw, a psychologist who was diagnosed with MS more than 20 years ago, discuss positive psychology and multiple sclerosis.
