Okay– I realize this title and photo are a little convoluted. Yet it’s so true: in order to stay positive, fulfilled, and mentally agile, one needs to maintain an ACTIVE life (despite having multiple sclerosis.) This doesn’t mean running marathons or even working full-time. It merely means that patients must find ways to thrive and remain true to themselves even in the midst of health changes and setbacks. And I’m the first to admit that it’s HARD.
I’ve found myself in a couple of slumps over the past five years (post-diagnosis.) Downgrading to part-time work– or no work— can make one feel like less of a person. It definitely knocked me for a loop: did I ever imagine that I’d have to drastically slow my pace in my thirties? My perception of myself went from being an active health professional to that of a sick, barely-contributing patient. And no matter what loved ones told me, the blows to my ego— not financially providing for our household, not having a meaningful career, accepting others’ condolences and assistance— became a heavy burden at times. It STILL smarts on occasion, but things have picked up in the past year. I would never have believed that mental “convalescence and rehabilitation” could take so long. Except I’ve now experienced both and have just emerged, dignity and self-respect intact, on the other side. Here is what I’ve gleaned from the experience:
It is OKAY to work on your mental health
Sanity is not always a given. Uncontrollable circumstances can– and will– rip apart the fabrics of our peaceful, predictable worlds. Seek out the emotional help (whether through support groups, individual counseling, or online support) to stay active and in the game.
Find things that challenge and activate your brain
Keeping mentally active is key to having an active, fulfilling life with MS. It’s so easy to become stuck and set in comfortable habits. But it’s better for overall health to seek new and challenging mental pursuits: new word games, classes, new hobbies, new friendships. Find that which makes you excited and joyful and creates a daily mental expansion.
Seek the support of experts: life coaches
These individuals can assess your needs and what you can incorporate into you life to be more involved with your community, your family, work, volunteering, and so on.
Set ONE manageable goal and work on achieving it
I had so many ideas rattling around in my brain, but I found that when I focused on ONE plan, some of the other ideas naturally fell in place with it. And then setting the next goal became that much easier.
Seek out others who cultivate your desire to be active
This one can be tricky. It’s mentally healthier to align yourself with others who want to thrive (whether they have MS or not.) But thankfully some of the most challenged people also have the greatest drives to succeed.
Accept imperfection and persevere
Things will go wrong. Illness will likely return. Failures crop up. But the definition of courage says it all: “the ability to move ahead even though one is afraid.”
