If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, there is understandably a great deal of emotion and concern, as well as unanswered questions. Amidst the feelings of confusion, anxiety and fear there is an overwhelming sense of worry over what lies ahead and how to continue living an independent, quality life. Knowing next steps is critical, as is gaining a solid support system and asking healthcare providers the right questions. These are the keys to understanding the disease and being prepared with the necessary information to face a future with multiple sclerosis. Coping with multiple sclerosis symptoms and the progression of the disease is an ongoing process, and it’s never too early to discover new treatment options and symptom management tactics. Understanding treatment methods and symptom management techniques is one of the first things a person will need to know. Luckily, there are many resources available, support groups, and of course, the guidance of healthcare providers. To start, it’s recommended to meet with your neurologist to discuss appropriate care, and begin treatment as early as possible. It’s easy to feel alone and overwhelmed with a multiple sclerosis diagnosis. Don’t wait too long to talk about it with caring and encouraging family members and friends. These are the people that will be part of a lifelong support system. Allow time for yourself and those closest to you to digest the news before thinking about the next people to tell. Take your time in disclosing the information. Remember that multiple sclerosis is only one aspect of your overall health. One can quickly become so overwhelmed with the disease that they neglect all other facets of their life and their health. Continue to take care of yourself and put an emphasis on being healthy and fit through diet and exercise. Think about how to eliminate stresses that regularly occur in your life, and consider developing a stress management plan. These may be stresses at work, problems with friends or daily occurrences at home that are a constant source of stress. Seek recommendations from your neurologist on how to deal with daily stresses, and be honest about what you’re facing. A doctor can provide the best stress-coping mechanisms that will be beneficial to your health. These are just several of many strategies that when joined together can create the best possible approach to managing the disease. Medications, treatments, rehabilitation, support groups and companionship from friends and loved ones all play an equally important role in living with multiple sclerosis. For more information on in-home care plans for managing multiple sclerosis, contact AT Home Care.