As a complex and unpredictable disease, MS can have varying effects on a person’s ability to work. New symptoms might make you question whether you can continue working and, when those symptoms subside, you might wonder why you were worried about work at all.
People living with MS often continue working long after their diagnosis. On the flip side, some people with MS decide to leave their jobs when they are first diagnosed or experience their first major exacerbation, often at the suggestion of their family or doctor. This decision is often made too quickly and at a time when symptoms can color judgment. Disease-modifying drugs, new technologies, better symptom management, legal employment protections, and community resources can help you remain in the workforce.
Developing and achieving employment goals can be accomplished despite your MS diagnosis.
You may have questions about:
Disclosing Your MS in the Workplace
Should you tell your employer? What effect will it have?
Knowing Your Rights
Understand the legal protections available to you
Workplace Decisions
Exploring employment options and making decisions about your career
Education and preparation can be your most powerful secret weapon. The National MS Society is here to work with you as you navigate your employment options. We have the resources to add to your employment tool kit:
- Brochures, publications, and videos
- Staff trained in employment issues
- In-person and coached educational programs
- Online education programs
Armed with knowledge of resources and legal employment protections, you can set goals that are achievable, challenging, and exciting.
Career Crossroads: Employment and MS
Career Crossroads: Employment and MS was designed by employment and MS experts to help individuals living with MS remain in the workforce.
The program is a six-part series:
- Working With MS
- The Law's on Your Side (available as webcast)
- My Little Secret (available as webcast)
- Maximize Your Potential
- You're Not Alone
- Taking Charge
Individuals interested in upcoming Career Crossroads programs can contact their chapter at 1-800-344-4867, to order a VHS or DVD self-guided version of the program.
While Career Crossroads was designed for people living with MS, the program is applicable to all people working with a chronic illness or a disability. This program is available to individuals and to other non-profits and disability rights organizations.
Organizations who are interested in adapting the program can work with the Society to adapt it to their needs. Contact cherie.terakura@nmss.org for more information.