Multiple Sclerosis or MS

by Kathleen R. Madison, MRC, CRC, LPCI

Multiple Sclerosis or MS is an autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system that affects more than 400,000 Americans; MS may affect 2.5 million individuals, worldwide. Two to three times as many women as men have Multiple Sclerosis. Multiple Sclerosis is the most common cause of neurological disability in young adults. Generally, MS is identified between the ages of 20 years and 50 years of age.

MS is an inflammation (and subsequent scarring) in the brain and spinal cord that progresses to the loss of the protective myelin sheaths that encase nerve fibers. As a result, nerve impulses aren’t transmitted as quickly or efficiently. Neurological impairment can take place as a result of the scarring. Incidences, or ‘exacerbations,” take the form of an attack where symptoms may last for 24 hours or longer and may be more or less severe than the last exacerbation. “Recovery” may be full or partial and the disease may progress with residual symptoms after an attack. Getting medical attention quickly, at the time of the attack, is extremely important to help alleviate further problems. Complete recovery from exacerbations produces favorable results. Early treatment can make a difference.

Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis may include numbness, tingling of extremities, abnormal fatigue, weakness, loss of balance and muscle coordination, vision loss, spasticity, bladder and bowel problems, tremor and vertigo, dizziness, clumsiness, slurred speech, swallowing disorders, hearing loss, itching, seizures, headache, stiffness, pain, generalized distress and anxiety, depression, mood swings, and inappropriate behavior (such as sexual aggressiveness).

Stress has been cited as a possible cause of the onset of Multiple Sclerosis or as a trigger for exacerbations. Research has indicated that in a nationwide study of 1,518 people with Multiple Sclerosis, 90% of these individuals experienced anxiety; more than 40% had received a diagnosis of depression; and more than 90% of these individuals received mental health services (Psychiatric Services 57:1206-1209, August 2006, APA.)

According to the MS Information Sourcebook, produced by the National MS Society, “Lack of knowledge about the disease adds to the anxieties commonly experienced by people who are newly diagnosed. Professional counseling and support groups can be very helpful in dealing with the anxiety and distress that may accompany MS. Professional counseling may be helpful in coping with the emotional aspects of MS.” Individuals with MS can take an active role towards achieving a healthier frame of mind by understanding some of the psychological changes that take place with the disease. As Multiple Sclerosis may have profound emotional consequences, Licensed Professional Counselors can provide therapy for an individual with MS to help deal with depression, mood swings and grieving.

Kathleen R. Madison, MRC, CRC, LPCI
Certified Rehabilitation Counselor
Licensed Professional Counselor/Intern
Certification in Psychiatric Rehabilitation

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