It’s normal to have some mental health changes when dealing with a chronic illness, like multiple sclerosis (MS). This may stem from the stress of managing treatment, the grief about the diagnosis, the potential loss of mobility, and even changes to the brain, according to Asaff Harel, MD, Neurologist at Lenox Hill Hospital, Northwell Health.
If you notice symptoms of depression, discuss it with your neurologist or primary care doctor. They may then refer you to a mental health specialist, such as a psychologist.
Asaff Harel, MD, is a Neurologist specializing in multiple sclerosis and related neuro-immunological conditions, serving as the Director of the Multiple Sclerosis Center at Lenox Hill Hospital, Northwell Health.
References
Halabchi, F., et al. (2017). Exercise prescription for patients with multiple sclerosis; potential benefits and practical recommendations. BMC Neurology.
National Multiple Sclerosis Society. (n.d.). Depression.
NIHMedlinePlus Magazine. (2022). Getting help for mental health.
Tafti, D., et al. (2022). Multiple sclerosis. StatPearls.
UpToDate. (2023). Patient education: Multiple sclerosis in adults (the basics).
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