Survey results: Emotional challenges and MS

Momentum’s online survey last fall on mood and multiple sclerosis seems to have touched a nerve, with close to 2,000 readers participating. Respondents cited depression as the most common emotional challenge they have faced since being diagnosed with MS, followed closely by anxiety:

• 81 percent of readers said they have experienced depression since their MS diagnosis.
• 76.4 percent said they have experienced anxiety.
• 58.6 percent said they have experienced abrupt or inappropriate mood changes.
• 10.2 percent said they have experienced other challenges, such as frustration, anger, or uncontrollable crying or laughing.

Medication is the most widely used treatment option.

• 60.7 percent of respondents said they have used medication to manage these challenges.
• 44.2 percent said they have used exercise as treatment.
• 37.6 percent said they have used talk therapy.
• 20.6 percent said they have sought other options, including talking with family members, reducing stress and considering self-medication.