12. Emotional Changes: The Psychological Roller Coaster of RRMS
RRMS doesn’t just affect the body; it has profound implications for mental and emotional well-being. It’s not just about the occasional mood swing; it’s about profound emotional shifts that can affect daily life and relationships.
Depression and anxiety are notably more common in people with RRMS compared to the general population. The unpredictability of the disease, the weight of the symptoms, and the challenges in coping can all contribute to these emotional changes. Beyond clinical depression and anxiety, individuals might also experience mood swings, irritability, and even episodes of euphoria.
Understanding the root of these emotional changes is crucial. While some are direct results of the disease’s impact on the brain, others are reactions to living with a chronic condition. Balancing this understanding, interventions might include counseling, support groups, and when needed, medications.(12)
