Multiple Sclerosis & Mental Health The Connection

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Understanding Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

• Chronic autoimmune disease
• Affects the central nervous system
• Leads to a range of debilitating symptoms

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Physical Symptoms of MS

• Fatigue
• Mobility challenges (weakness, stiffness,
  tremors, balance issues)
• Sensory disturbances (numbness, tingling, burning
  sensations)
• Vision problems (blurred vision, optic neuritis)
• Spasticity, pain, bladder, and bowel dysfunction
• Sexual dysfunction
• Impact on Quality of Life
• Chronic pain and mobility limitations
• Cognitive difficulties
• Feelings of frustration, isolation, and
  hopelessness

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Common Mental Health Issues Associated with MS

• Anxiety
• Excessive worry, nervousness, restlessness, and
  tension
• Arises from uncertainty, fear of disease
  progression, and future concerns
• Mood swings
• Changes in brain chemistry and hormonal
  fluctuations
• Elevated mood (hypomania) to low mood
  (depression)
• Cognitive dysfunction
• Memory and attention difficulties
• Problem-solving and executive functioning issues
• Impact on mental health frustration, anxiety,
  cognitive overload

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Common Mental Health Issues Associated with MS
(cont..)

• Depression
• Stemming from physical symptoms and lifestyle
  changes
• Symptoms persistent sadness, loss of interest,
  appetite changes, sleep issues, feelings of
  worthlessness, frequent thoughts of death or
  self-harm
• Emotional lability
• Sudden and uncontrollable changes in emotions
• One moment laughing, next moment crying without
  apparent cause
• Often disruptive and difficult to manage
• Impacts relationships and social interactions

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Coping with MS and Mental Health

• Understand Your Condition
• Knowledge is power learn about MS, its symptoms,
  treatment options, and prognosis.
• Reduces fear and uncertainty.
• Empathetic Support Network
• Surround yourself with family, friends, and
  doctors who understand your journey.
• Join online support groups for validation and
  reassurance.
• Relaxation and Mindfulness Techniques
• Incorporate deep breathing, progressive muscle
  relaxation, and meditation into your routine.
• Calm your mind and reduce anxiety and stress.
• Be Active
• Engage in regular exercise yoga, walking,
  swimming.
• Physical activity releases endorphins and
  dopamine, improving mood and overall well-being.

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• Stay Away from Stressful Situations and Triggers
• Identify and minimize stressors.
• Delegate tasks, set realistic goals, and stay
  organized.
• Avoid overstretching yourself.
• Maintain a Routine
• Stick to a regular daily routine for stability
  and control.
• Avoid Stimulants
• Limit caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine.
• Opt for herbal teas and hydrating beverages like
  coconut water and lemonade.
• Stay Positive
• Focus on positive aspects of your life and
  practice gratitude.
• Keep a gratitude journal or reflect on daily
  accomplishments.
• Prioritize Self-Care and Limit Isolation
• Ensure adequate sleep, balanced meals, regular
  exercise, and relaxation techniques
• Stay socially connected reach out to loved ones
  and attend social events

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Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy at Plexus

• At Plexus, our CBT programs focus on the
  following
• Education Patients and caregivers are educated
  about cognitive deficits and strategies to manage
  them
• Process Training Exercises to improve attention,
  memory, and problem-solving skills
• Strategy Training Techniques to compensate for
  cognitive impairments, such as using memory aids
• Functional Activities Training Applying
  cognitive skills to everyday tasks to enhance
  practical abilities
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy at Plexus has the
  following benefits
• Restored brain function
• Improved organization and social skills
• Effective communication
• Enhanced confidence and decision-making
• Better memory
• Improved academic and work prospects
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy is widely
  recommended for managing anxiety and depression
  effectively.

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Remember, you are not alone. An MS diagnosis is a
detour, not the end of the road Reach out to Team
Plexus for support WhatsApp [phone]
42087 Call 91 78159 64668 (Hyderabad) 91
82299 99888 (Bangalore)