Frequently Asked Questions
Will MS have any impact on my work or education?
Because MS is a highly variable disease, it is hard to give a general answer that would apply to everyone diagnosed with MS. Each person is affected differently and may experience a number of symptoms with varying degrees of severity and/or frequency. It is the severity of symptoms and possible resulting disability that will dictate the extent that work or education will be influenced. The possibility of some degree of disability in the long-term should not outweigh the fact that there can be many ongoing productive years for the person with MS.
Usually, people who have the benign form of the disease or whose symptoms are minimal and not visible will probably be able to continue with their usual employment and educational activities. If fatigue is a problem, they may have to plan for regular rest periods during the day.
People who have relapsing-remitting MS or who develop some level of disability will need to realistically evaluate their situation in many areas (e.g. physically, socially, cognitively) to decide on long-term as well as short-term strategies for work and education. People with MS should work with their employer and/or educational institutions to ensure their needs can be met.
The decision to share information as to whether you have MS is a matter of personal judgement. If you do not have visible symptoms there may be no reason to disclose a diagnosis of MS. On the other hand, many educational institutions (for example) will make special accommodations for persons with MS in regard to timetable, examinations, entry requirements etc, while maintaining a level of confidentiality.
The legal requirements to accommodate people who have disabilities vary from country to country. The Employment Initiative of the International Federation of Multiple Sclerosis Societies (IFMSS) developed the programme Working Together in order to increase understanding of the needs of persons with MS in employment. It may be a helpful resource to both persons with MS and employers in dealing with employment issues. You are encouraged to contact the national MS society in your country for more information about existing legislation and other employment matters pertaining to MS. Information on Working Together is available through the IFMSS.
Text is based on information of www.msif.org
