Living with multiple sclerosis means more than managing physical symptoms like fatigue, numbness, or vision changes. For many, the hardest struggles are invisible: depression, anxiety, and mood swings. These aren’t simply emotional reactions — they’re also directly linked to MS changes in the brain.

How Common Are They?

• About 25–30% of people with MS are living with depression at any given time. Over a lifetime, up to ~50% will experience it — nearly three times higher than the general population.

• Anxiety disorders affect ~35% of people with MS, compared to ~20% in the general population.

• Suicide risk is about double that of the general population, showing how serious these invisible struggles can be.

Stress is a universal part of life — but in multiple sclerosis (MS), its effects run deeper than most people realize.Research suggests that psychological stress can influence MS both directly and indirectly. Directly, it affects the immune system, potentially increasing inflammation and worsening nerve conduction. Indirectly, it can impact sleep, mood, pain perception, and even digestion — all of which influence how MS symptoms are experienced.

In fact, several studies have found links between high stress levels and increased frequency or intensity of symptom flare-ups. Stress triggers the release of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. While these hormones help us deal with short-term challenges, prolonged stress can dysregulate the immune system. In MS, where the immune system is already attacking the myelin sheath that protects nerve fibers, this imbalance can mean more symptom spikes — sometimes referred to as pseudo-relapses.

The nervous system also plays a key role. Stress activates the…

Living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) presents a unique journey filled with both visible and invisible challenges. Among these, overthinking stands out as a common yet often overlooked aspect that significantly impacts mental well-being. This cognitive phenomenon, marked by repetitive and uncontrollable thoughts, adds an extra layer of complexity to managing MS. Individuals grappling with this condition may find themselves more susceptible to overthinking due to the uncertainty surrounding their health, the unpredictable nature of symptoms, and the daily adjustments required to navigate life with a chronic illness. Furthermore, the neurological changes associated with MS can exacerbate cognitive processes, amplifying rumination and excessive worry. Recognizing these triggers is essential to tailor strategies that address overthinking in MS effectively:

Grounding Techniques: Grounding techniques serve as simple yet powerful strategies to reconnect with the present moment and alleviate feelings of anxiety or overthinking. For instance, the 5-4-3-2-1 Technique involves engaging the senses by…