Skip to navigation Skip to content

Mood Changes

Share

In this article

Overview

MS can have a significant impact on a person’s emotions, not only because MS is challenging to live with, but because it affects parts of the brain that control mood. Mood changes are considered to be a symptom of MS as well as a reaction to it. It is essential to recognize and address changes, because state of mind, emotion and mood:
  • impact how one feels physically and functions in everyday life
  • affect one’s ability to adapt to change, problem-solve effectively, and participate in personal care
  • can negatively impact cognitive function 
  • are difficult for others to understand and live with, potentially causing disruptions in communication and relationships
The treatment for emotional changes in MS involves counseling, medication if needed, and exercise.

MS can affect mood

The most common emotional changes in MS include:
  • grief (and sadness): natural reactions to the type of change and loss that MS can cause in a person’s life. These feelings will likely ebb and flow over the course of the disease.
  • worry, fear, moodiness, irritability and anxiety: normal in the face of unpredictability; anyone can become a bit irritable when faced with difficult challenges.
  • depression is one of the most common symptoms of MS and a major risk factor for suicide. The primary reason why the risk of suicide among people with MS is unacceptably high is undiagnosed and under-treated depression.
Depression, persistent anxiety and extreme irritability are never “natural” or “normal.” Although very common in people with MS, these changes are as deserving of treatment as any of the physical symptoms of the disease. Changes in mood can be a significant source of pain and distress in and of themselves.

Get help

Mood changes are not a sign of weakness. In fact, dealing with them is a sign of strength.
  • Begin with the recognition that emotional changes significantly impact quality of life and deserve as much attention as physical symptoms.
  • Keep in mind that family members, as well as the person with MS, may experience problems with mood.
  • Remember that in MS, mood changes can be a symptom of the disease as well as a reaction to its challenges.
  • Report changes to your healthcare team.
  • Ask your healthcare provider for a referral to a mental health professional who is knowledgeable about MS, or contact an MS Navigator for a referral.
  • Connect with others in person or online for support.
Dave Rosen, diagnosed in 2016

Dave Rosen

diagnosed with MS in 2016
(Since Dave started treatment) “Honestly I think the relationship with my wife has gotten a lot stronger.  I am capable of doing a lot of things now, I can be a Dad to my kids and a husband to my wife and actually be here.”  Now I can refocus my passion on my family.”
Anne Marie Johnson

Anne Marie Johnson

diagnosed with MS in 2002
“I noticed (after starting medication treatment), in time, things I liked to do, I wanted to do again.  Then it got to a place where you couldn’t keep me in the house, all I wanted to do was be out in the world again”
Maria Reyes-Velarde

Maria Reyes-Velarde

diagnosed with MS in 2000
(Bon-Bon her adopted therapy dog) "Bon-Bon helped me a lot.  I have company, I don’t feel that alone, I don’t feel that depressed anymore.  Another good thing about the dog is that he makes me move again, he makes me get up.  Bon-Bon is a rescue, but he rescued me.”

Book

Mood Changes in Multiple Sclerosis
This book and the accompanying video explore why and how people with MS experience changes in mood, and provide the latest information on how these symptoms can be addressed—from physical activity, medications and counseling to self-management strategies.

Read More


Cambios Anímicos en Personas con Esclerosis Múltiple
Version en español.

Lee Mas

Video

Mood Changes in Multiple Sclerosis
WATCH NOW

Mood Changes in Multiple Sclerosis

This video explores why and how people with MS experience changes in mood, and provides the latest information on how these symptoms can be addressed—from physical activity, medications and counseling to self-management strategies.

You will hear from clinicians at the forefront of MS research and treatment discussing the latest advances and recommendations, as well as from individuals who have experienced these symptoms and have lessons to share.

Share


© 2024 The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is a tax exempt 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Its Identification Number (EIN) is 13-5661935.