Multiple Sclerosis
Deborah DeCairos Grandmaitre, M.Ed., CCC
Canadian Certified Counsellor
Strategies for Coping with Stress
Many people with MS don't recognize the psychological component of their condition at first, and only gradually accept the fact that they may need to develop coping strategies. These include learning how to deal effectively with the new issues confronting them: stereotypes of the disabled in the community, perceived changes in masculinity or femininity, changes in relationships, changes in roles within the family, changes in employment status, increased dependence on others and changes in physical condition.
Coping strategies are best developed through experience; they cannot be learned by reading a book. But here are a few strategies to get you started:
- Foster the idea of being in control. Focus on the many aspects of your life in which you do have control, such as what you do today, whom you socialize with and so on. To be happy and to cope, people must feel that they have at least some - preferably a lot of - control over their lives.
- Determine a way (small or large) to contribute to your community - something you can enjoy and follow through with your plan. This will enhance your self-esteem and help put your problems in perspective.
- Attend appropriate counselling sessions.
- Learn to say no without feeling guilty.
- Make a list of people, places and things you like (energizers) and dislike (fatiguers). Be honest.
- Within the limits of your ethical responsibilities, avoid fatiguers and seek out energizers.
- Make a list of people you can rely on for support, and call on them as needed. Create support networks outside the home (where most of the support is ordinarily provided).
- Prioritize projects to avoid burnout and overload.
Taken From: Multiple Sclerosis: The Facts You Need, Chapter 5, pg 65. By Dr. Paul O'Connor
