Diagnosed With MS:
20 years later
Finding balance is necessary with any aspect of life. Finding balance while adding a chronic disease to daily events can be tricky.
In order to balance the physical with the emotional elements of multiple sclerosis, I have realized that sometimes I just need to be selfish with my time.
It is necessary to take care of myself in order to care for all of the additional aspects of life. The phrase “If momma ain’t happy, nobody’s happy” is SO accurate. By finding balance in my immediate existence, I am much more likely to be successful with being a mother, a wife, and a friend.
Helpful tips:
- Don’t bottle up emotions. Learn to communicate your thoughts, fears, and needs.
- Find a support group, whether it is in person or online. There are several Face Book groups for MS Warriors. I follow I’m Not Drunk I have MS, Multiple Sclerosis Unplugged, and MS Focus regularly. NMSS also lists MS support groups on their website.
The 7 Best Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Support Groups of 2021
- Best Overall: National Multiple Sclerosis Society
- Best Peer-to-Peer Connection: MS World
- Best for Health and Wellness: Can Do Multiple Sclerosis
- Best for Friendship: MyMSTeam
- Best One-on-One Support: Multiple Sclerosis Association of America
- Best for Starting Your Own Support Group: MS Focus
- Best for Tracking MS Data: PatientsLikeMe
Can’t find a group or are not impressed with what you do find? Start your own group. You can get trained by NMSS to design and organize your own group.
3. Don’t dwell on what was (prior diagnosis); concentrate on what IS. Live in the present.
4. Set aside a daily time to celebrate YOU. Whether it be in meditation, exercise, a nap, or reading a book, it is important to allow yourself the gift of self-time. You are a superhero and deserve superhero treatment.
Believe in yourself,
Lisa, Lady With the Cane
