Keep mentally strong

Staying in the right frame of mind despite MS can be challenging. If you do feel signs of depression, it's important to identify it early, talk to a healthcare professional and seek treatment.

Depression and MS

Understanding depression and MS

Depression is an intense feeling of sadness or despair for long periods of time, often without any obvious reason. It can be a symptom of MS or develop as a result of a diagnosis or a change in condition.

That’s 3x higher than
the general population

Symptoms of depression can be hard to distinguish from MS symptoms

Two most common signs:

Persistently feeling sad or empty with a low mood

Ongoing, reduced interest or pleasure in all or most normal activities (e.g. eating, reading or socialising)

Learn more about the other signs of depression here

Strategies to manage depression

Regular exercise

Sunshine, warmth, light and fresh air

Positive thinking

Healthy living and stress reduction

Counselling or psychological therapies

Medication

If you think you have depression, discuss your needs with your neurologist and ask about the management options that are best for you. If taking medication, ask about which treatment is best for you as it may interact with your MS medicine.

DO:

  • Keep aware of the signs and symptoms of depression
  • Practice coping management strategies
  • Continue to take your MS medications as prescribed
  • Discuss how you’re feeling with friends and family
  • Seek professional help as early as possible

DON’T:

  • Hide depression
  • Think it can be controlled or ignored
  • Consider it shameful or a sign of weakness
  • Be too hard on yourself or compare yourself to others

Questions you could ask your neurologist

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