If you’re sick with a cold or a stomach virus, chances are that you’ll be back to yourself in a week. However, if you have a chronic condition, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), things might be a little different. You might be affected in many ways, but the good news is that the diagnosis doesn’t have to prevent you from being happy. With the right attitude, you can easily deal with the issues that MS might bring.
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Consider Medical Marijuana
Many patients are choosing medical marijuana to try to manage their symptoms, and in certain states, such as Ohio, the herb is legal for medical uses. If you are interested in trying cannabis for yourself, look into getting your Ohio medical marijuana card. When you do it online, the process only takes minutes, and you don’t have to leave the comfort of your own home. Plus, you’ll only be billed once you’re approved.
Take Care Of Your Mental Health
MS can impact your life in many ways, and many of them aren’t positive changes. If you’re struggling, get help if you need it. In some cases, simply telling a trusted friend about your feelings might boost your mood and reduce your negative feelings. Talking to a professional might help you learn how to manage your symptoms and understand the condition. If you are feeling stressed or anxious, consider speaking with a mental health care provider. They can create a treatment plan that will meet your needs. Sometimes, getting therapy can help you feel more in control. In other cases, you may receive medications to help with anxiety or depression.
You might consider counseling as well, especially if you would rather handle the issue with only one person. A therapist or counselor can talk to you about your sensitive or private feelings and how the condition has impacted both your relationships and life. Another way to take care of your mental health is to look for a local or online support group. Many patients find that a great way of dealing with the condition is to reach out to others who also have MS. A group allows you to learn how to handle the condition. You can let others know how you are feeling and learn coping strategies. Remember, while your experience is unique, you’re not alone in dealing with MS.
Keep A Regular Schedule
When you have a chronic condition such as MS, some days will be better than others. Take what you know about your levels of energy and create a schedule. For example, you might feel tired later in the day and need to rest. Try to do important work or errands in the morning. If you work a traditional office job, ask if you can arrive earlier so you can leave in the early afternoon. When you have a large project, try to break it into smaller pieces, which might be less overwhelming. It’s also important to have regular times of rest so you don’t use up all your energy. You might choose to take a few power naps throughout the day for 10 to 15 minutes each time. Or you could take a longer one for a couple of hours.
