i have had multiple sclerosis for 10 years now and still do not want to tell people how do I overcome this?

Question

I can't understand why I am so ashamed of having this crappy disease. It is not like I calused it. I am embarrassed I guess. So many people stay in the closet for many years before speaking out. With cancer people tell everyone immediately with MS people tell people when it is absolutely necessary

I failed to mention that my symptoms are no longer invisible. My legs and balance are not working properly so it is noticable that something is wrong. But it is still hard for me for people to know especially distant relatives--aunts, uncles, cousins. I do avoid family functions and i won't be able to if there were a death in my family.

Answer 1

I don't agree that "with cancer people tell everyone". It is a personal thing, everyone is different.

Why do you feel you have to advertise your disease? If it is to educate, that's great, but if it's to get sympathy that isn't a good idea. It's one thing to discuss this with close friends and relatives for support, but another to disclose to people you hardly know.

I have found most people these days aren't very caring and so I don't usually say too much. The phrase "how are you" doesn't seem to have any heart behind it, it's basically an empty greeting and they really don't want to know how you really are doing.

Unless you have a good reason, why tell people?

Answer 2

Sclerosis

Also called: MS
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a nervous system disease that affects your brain and spinal cord. It damages the myelin sheath, the material that surrounds and protects your nerve cells. This damage slows down or blocks messages between your brain and your body, leading to the symptoms of MS. They can include

Visual disturbances
Muscle weakness
Trouble with coordination and balance
Sensations such as numbness, prickling, or "pins and needles"
Thinking and memory problems
No one knows what causes MS. It may be an autoimmune disease, which happens when your body attacks itself. Multiple sclerosis affects woman more than men. It often begins between the ages of 20 and 40. Usually, the disease is mild, but some people lose the ability to write, speak or walk. There is no cure for MS, but medicines may slow it down and help control symptoms. Physical and occupational therapy may also help.

Answer 3

I know plenty of people with cancer who don't discuss the fact that they have it. I have MS but I don't feel obligated to tell anyone that I have it unless I feel like it and have a reason to tell them. Everybody feels differently on this issue. When I tell someone I have it they usually they tell me that I look fine. Most people don't have much concept of the disease and I usually don't feel like explaining. I don't owe anyone any explanations. You have every right to keep the matter as private as you want. Take good care now.

Answer 4

Why are you ashamed or embarrassed? Diseases are a fact of life. MS affects millions of people each year. You have no reason to feel the way you do. Call a friend or relative today and tell them that you have MS. YOU HAVE NO REASON TO FEEL THE WAY YOU DO!!

Answer 5

Honestly now .. this is your life and you should not feel as if you have to answer to anyone - particularly in regard to your personal / health situation. Concentrate on yourself and your needs and please don't give a toss what others think (or wonder) about you. Not worth it !!!!!

Answer 6

You shouldn't be ashamed of it. You're fine. You can talk about it if you want to, or you can keep it a secret.

You're fine, be true to your heart.

Rock on!