Mood and depression
Most people experience episodes of low mood in their life. This can be managed and improved by making small changes. Usually, low mood gets better after a few days or weeks, however, if you have a low mood that lasts two weeks or more, it can be a sign of depression.
Depression is more common in people with MS than the general population. There are many things that can cause or trigger depression. This includes MS symptoms such as fatigue, pain, spasticity, and bladder problems; but you can also become depressed for no obvious reason.
If you are having thoughts such as 'life's not worth living', or you're self-harming or thinking about doing so, it's important to tell someone. You do not have to struggle alone. Click on the link below to access urgent support.
https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/urgent-support/
Samaritans, 24-hour telephone helpline.
'If you need someone to talk to, we listen. We won't judge or tell you what to do.'
Tel: 116 123 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (24-hour response)
Self–help tips for low mood
Stay in touch
Withdrawing from life can make your mood worse. Socialising can improve your mood. Connecting with friends or family means you will have someone to talk to when you feel low.
Be more active
Aim to raise your heart rate a little. Try and keep cool as you will manage more if you do. Pace yourself and listen to your body. See Exercise and Activity.
Day-to-day routine
Maintain healthy sleep habits. Try not to go to bed too late or get up too late. Try adding relaxation techniques or mindfulness into your day. Eat meals at regular times.
Eat healthily
Eating a well-balanced diet can help your brain and body work more efficiently. Reducing sugar and saturated fats and increasing fruit and vegetables can also help. Some foods and drinks can affect your mood. An example of this is alcohol, which is a known depressant. See diet for more information on how foods can affect your mood.
MSTV have a video that may be helpful sharing top tips for coping with the emotional side of an MS diagnosis: https://youtu.be/xcEP09niANc.co.uk
If you are feeling depressed, it is important to contact your GP or health professional. There is also the option to self-refer yourself to counselling. In Dorset, the main service is Steps2wellbeing.
Steps2wellbeing
Steps2wellbeing is a free, confidential, NHS self-referral service. They offer a range of treatments for people experiencing problems with low mood/ depression, anxiety, stress, or other common mental health problems.
You may also find it useful to look at our pages on relaxation and mindfulness.
There are lots of good resources and support available to you if you are feeling low:
https://mstrust.org.uk/a-z/depression
https://mstrust.org.uk/information-support/wellbeing-ms
Tips for everyday living with a mental health problem - Mind
Every Mind Matters - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/mental-health-issues/low-mood/
