Have
you been recently diagnosed with MS?
If
you have just been diagnosed with MS these are some of the ways
that we may be able to help:
There
is more information about all of these options in the How
we can help section. If you would prefer to speak to somebody
straight away, please feel free to call our toll-free Information
Hotline on 1 800 676 721.
Being diagnosed with MS is commonly a devastating and shocking experience which
threatens to disrupt your life in unpredictable ways. When you receive the diagnosis
of MS, your mind is full of worried thoughts. The reality of life confronts you
as you consider your situation.
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· MS is
a chronic disease – now although your systems
may change, wax or wane, you will never not have MS.
· There is no explanation of why you have got MS.
· No-one can predict what MS will do to you.
· There is, as yet, no cure for MS.
|
Consider
This:
| A
large percentage of people with MS (approximately 45%) are
not severely affected by MS and live normal and productive
lives. |
Nevertheless,
diagnosis of chronic illness will provoke a range of feelings – disbelief,
anger, fear, depression, grief, loss and guilt will be part of the spectrum
of reaction.
Many people with MS do discover peace of mind once they have worked through
their
reactions. These people find they have grown in maturity and wisdom – they
have adjusted their perception themselves, they have retained their dignity and
self-esteem, and they have developed philosophy of life which deals with the
problems of suffering and of human imperfection.
These observations are true not only for people with MS, but also for people
confronted by any unpredictable life change and chronic condition.
In obtaining the diagnosis of MS, you have already had dealings with some
of
your support network. You’ve had discussions, perhaps, with family members,
work mates, friends, doctors and health care professionals. All these people,
and others as well, will remain essential to your support network. It is wise
to make every use of these people’s skills and interest in your well-being.
Remember, you are allowed to search until you find the people and groups best
suited to your needs – you are entitled to change doctors, to ask questions,
to request services, and so on, until you are comfortable and have received the
information you need to be in control your own situation.
It is useful to take note of the many specialists you might consult about MS
matters.
- Your
GP, the family doctor.
- The
neurologist, the specialist in diseases and conditions of the nervous
system.
- Appropriate
specialists. For example: MS Society staff, physiotherapists, occupational
therapists, speech therapists, counsellor (psychiatrist, psychologist,
etc), social worker, dietician, continence adviser, urologist.
Individual
needs Assessment
Newly diagnosed people are offered the option of having an individual
needs assessment to determine their level of support services. In
addition, counselling services are provided on request. Newly diagnosed
people are encouraged to discuss their concerns with other people
with multiple sclerosis. To request an individual needs assessment,
please contact us by sending an email to: aboutus@mstas.org.au
or calling 1800 676 721. |
