Newly Diagnosed

If you, or a loved one, have recently been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) you may not even know where to begin. Chances are you’ve never heard about MS or know what this means in terms of the rest of your life. You’re probably feeling overwhelmed, even a little scared, and possibly relief in finally knowing what to call all these strange symptoms you’ve been having.  
 
But no one has to face MS alone. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is here to help provide the support, resources and information you need to move your life forward. Many people find it helpful to start by gathering the facts.  Learning as much as you can about MS and getting answers to common questions can help you feel confident and in control of your health.

Connect and learn with others who are new to MS and navigating their own journeys. This program offers information about MS and symptoms, how to manage MS, and living well with MS. There will be opportunities to engage with other attendees, ask questions of a healthcare professional, and share your own experiences.

This program will be offered monthly on the 2nd Thursday of the month. The program content will be the same each month. Space is limited, and sessions regularly reach capacity.

National Contributor

Special thank you to our New to MS Virtual Program national contributor, Bristol Myers Squibb.

How to get the most out of this program:

• Join with a carepartner, friend or family member
• Make a list of questions before the program
• Test your technology before logging in
• Take notes
• Engage with other attendees over chat or in discussion
• Participate in interactive polls
• Access the New to MS Resource Guide following the program to explore information and resources discussed during the program

You’re not alone. The National MS Society is here to support you and we are just a call or message away. In the meantime, we offer a variety of resources. Here are a few we recommend:

• Knowledge Is Power will help you take charge of your MS with an overview of symptoms, treatments and answers to frequently asked questions.
• MS Navigators are highly skilled, compassionate professionals that help connect you to the support you need 1:1. 
• Employment Resources to help you be proactive and make informed decisions.
• Resources for families, spouses and children who also experience the effects of this diagnosis. 
• Black MS Experience Resources
• Hispanic and Latinx Resources
• Pediatric MS Resources
• Read In the Beginning – an article from our Momentum magazine about those who are newly diagnosed
• On Demand MS Education

• National MS Society Community Facebook Group
• MSFriends
• Join a Local Connection Group
• Multiple Sclerosis Discord
• AnCan Virtual Multiple Sclerosis Support Group