There are many sources for multiple sclerosis (MS) help, including doctors, therapists, and support groups. Family members and other loved ones may also help provide the emotional support patients need. Alternative health practitioners have also proven beneficial for many patients.
Doctors are often the first source for multiple sclerosis help, as they are responsible for diagnosing the condition and providing treatment options. They may prescribe medications and give advice on maintaining function and mobility. Sometimes physicians offer dietary instructions, exercise advice, and other useful tips on managing the condition without losing mobility for as long as possible. This could be from a general practitioner or specialist, although the latter is often preferred once a diagnosis has been made.
Therapists are also great sources of multiple sclerosis help, as they work with patients to discuss the emotional and mental side effects they may deal with after diagnosis. Many patients feel anger, fear, uncertainty, and apprehension after being told they have MS. Counselors and therapists are able to provide coping techniques for handling stress and anxiety, as well as a shoulder to lean on when sufferers are having a hard time dealing with their condition.
Support groups and family members may offer a similar type of multiple sclerosis help in that they are available for emotional support of MS patients. Groups are usually founded, led, or attended by other MS sufferers and they offer patients a place to talk or vent with others who understand their frustrations. Additional support may be offered by close loved ones. Family members and friends may also need emotional support from an outside source, and could benefit from supports groups or therapy as well.
Some alternative health practitioners also offer multiple sclerosis help. Many patients have reported a reduction in symptoms while using treatments such as acupuncture, herbal supplements, and massage. Meditation and other spiritual aspects of healing may also be beneficial by relaxing patients and helping them gain better control over their mind and spirit.
Many patients find comfort and help through prayer and a close religious network. Some studies have shown that those who pray actually fare better when battling a chronic or life threatening illness than those who don’t. It didn’t seem to matter what religious affiliation the patient had, or whether they prayed to a divine entity, angels, nature, or another spiritual source. Those who do not practice any particular religion may also benefit by reciting affirmative phrases to themselves or by speaking to their illness with authority. This helps to make them feel powerful and may help reduce stress.
