Does anyone struggles with anxiety?

Hi, ! I don't if this will make you feel better or not, but you definitely have plenty of company when it comes to dealing with MS and anxiety! There's plenty of discussion within this community about the root causes of anxiety and why it pairs up fairly frequently with MS and you are welcome to share your own perspectives and thoughts on the "hows" and "whys", if you would like.

That said, you don't face this alone. I could share a ton of links with you on this topic, but I don't want to inundate you, so I will just share a couple. Here's one from one of our contributors and his experience with MS -- https://multiplesclerosis.net/living-with-ms/anguish-of-anxiety. You'll see a number of comments at the end of his article from other community members, too. And here's another perspective from another one of our contributors -- https://multiplesclerosis.net/living-with-ms/handle-anxiety. Whether it's the day-to-day anxiety of navigating the world with MS or full blown, diagnosed anxiety, many of our members know what those experiences are like and often share about them on this site. I hope some of them will see you post and chime in here, too.

If you haven't done so already, talking to a professional mental health specialist can really help, especially if they specialize in anxiety or life changing diagnoses. Spaces like this can be helpful. Also, there are reputable sites that focus on anxiety education and help. Here's one that I think is based in Australia, but has some great basic information and resources -- https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/resources-support/anxiety/help-support/. I know in person or even online therapy is out of reach for many of us, so I want to offer links to some self help style resources as well, hence the Blackdog Institute site.

Again, please know you're not alone here! Reach out anytime if you have any questions or concerns. We're happy to help in any way we can.

Best, Erin, Team Member.