Aside from the normal stresses of everyday life, MS creates stresses of its own. Many people with MS say they experience more symptoms during stressful times; when the stress lessens, their symptoms seem less severe. MS is unpredictable and just anticipating the next exacerbation can be a significant source of stress. MS can also lead to some major life changes such as loss of mobility and interference with work

Chronic stress weakens the immune system and increases the risk for a number of illnesses including heart disease, diabetes, and depression. Most research studies about the effects of stress on MS have been inconclusive. Learn more about stress management strategies online Researchers have also found that people who experience a moderate amount of hardship throughout their lives show greater well-being and resilience. Resilience is commonly described as the ability to bounce back from difficult circumstances -- to find happiness and life satisfaction despite challenges. Learn more about resilience and how to increase resilience in the face of MS-related challenges