For these reasons it is important that a patient with MS seeks cognitive behavioral therapy with a psychologist as soon as possible. MS patients can experience depression, anxiety, and a host of other complications. The sooner they get help, the better off they will be. If you know an MS patient who seems like they need help, you should encourage them to schedule an appointment with a psychologist. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help a patient live a normal life as much as possible.
Depression Makes Matters Worse
A recent psychologist research study indicated that more than 50 percent of MS patients experience depression to one degree or another. Their symptoms can make them feel hopeless. MS symptoms can cause depression, and the depression makes the MS symptoms even worse than they usually are. Depression can cause weight gain, overeating, a lack of hope, reduced sexual desire, and more.
Depression can range from mild to severe. Some patients have suicidal thoughts, and some act on these thoughts. You should help an MS patient in your life to cope with these thoughts. Help them to seek treatment from a psychologist as soon as they can. You could save their life by referring them to a psychologist. And they will certainly begin to feel better in time.
Anxiety in MS Patients
Anxiety also causes problems for plenty of MS patients. Anxiety is classified as a constant fear or worry about things that the person may or may not be able to control. In the life of an MS patient, these worries and fears can stem from a number of circumstances. They might be afraid that they will never feel normal again. They might worry about being disabled for the rest of their lives. All of these worries and fears add up to anxiety attacks.
Cognitive behavioral therapy from a psychologist can go a long way toward improvements in the MS patient’s life. They will learn how to channel their negative thoughts in another way. Their anxiety won’t take over their life as often as it does now. Their improved mental health will help them focus on the physical challenges MS presents to them. Therapy can only help a person with MS. They shouldn’t be afraid to seek help.
Final Thoughts
MS patients should take advantage of cognitive behavioral therapy. It can offer assistance in combating the effects of depression and anxiety. A psychologist can be incredibly beneficial to an MS patient who feels overwhelmed. A therapist can work through the issues an MS patient deals with on a daily basis. The MS patient will have a healthy and less stressful outlook on life. Help an MS patient in your life seek the care they deserve.