Why people with MS may already have the skills to cope with the Covid-19 lockdown

While the coronavirus pandemic has caused untold upheaval in everyone's lives, Carla King, who was diagnosed with MS in 2008, reasons that people with MS have already developed many of the skills needed to get them through these strange times. 

As a regular user of various social media channels, I've seen my fair share of virus-related posts in recent weeks, conveying anything from complete denial to sheer terror. I suspect that most of us are bouncing around somewhere in between. It's hard to feel positive with the constant bombardment of news, but we MSers are used to dealing with change. So, I'm offering a slightly different take on how our extensive MS skillset might be useful in this situation.

We know about uncertainty

Over the years, I've talked to newly-diagnosed people about the five stages of grief. We're used to navigating these stages, so we know what it's like to deal with uncertainty. Now, due to the Covid-19 guidance, non-MSers are also being forced to go through these stages, losing their freedom and independence, so we'll be a useful and experienced ear to those finding it difficult to accept the situation.

We know self-isolation

For those having previously experienced being housebound due to their MS, some issues are all too familiar. Last year, I spent long periods of time at home, and one could argue that people like me are ahead of the curve as we know what to expect. For example, the world has only just cottoned on to the potential loneliness of isolation.  Having experienced this, MSers are already adept at connecting with others.

We know the importance of routine, and of setting personal boundaries, for keeping a sense of normality. We're used to asking for help, especially when we face barriers. We already work from home, seeing this as an opportunity rather than an inconvenience.

When I was playing around with titles, this article was originally known as 'How MSers deal with the Apocalypse' which is a bit mischievous, but to me, humour is an antidote to my negative thoughts.

We don't give up

As MS is an unpredictable part of our lives, we are an adaptable bunch and accustomed to making sudden adjustments. When new symptoms come along, we don't know how long they will last, what will help to manage them or whether they will have a lasting effect; all big unknowns. Yet, somehow, we find ways through, often in very practical ways. Resilience is key to our MS armoury. Obviously, there are bad days, but we're good at focusing on what we can do, rather than what we can't.

We are hopeful, but realistic

We know that this isn't simply one long holiday, of which in between the wins and new joys there will be moments of extreme boredom, sadness and frustration. Recently, I've felt grateful for smaller achievements, I've been more likely to notice things that would otherwise have passed me by, and taking fewer things for granted. Gratitude feeds our attitude! MS can be an emotional and physical rollercoaster, but we make it through because we have to, because even on our trickier days there is hope. And if it's one thing we're good at, it's hope. 

Maybe MSers aren't experts in this situation, but we're better equipped than others to deal with what's coming. We understand that bad things don't last for ever and that to get through this, we must focus on what the present can offer.

Carla King was diagnosed with MS in 2008, having had her first relapse in 2005. Follow Carla on Twitter @CarlaKCoach or via her My MS Bully and Me blog.