Being a parent is challenging work, but when you throw in living with MS, things get even more complicated. Balancing the demands of work and family requires even more juggling when you have MS, but parenting with multiple sclerosis is definitely possible. Read on to learn how to manage full time parenting when you’re living with full time MS.
Take Care of Yourself - Manage MS Symptoms and Stress
People say, “you can’t draw water from an empty well,” for a reason. Good parents put their children first in many instances, but when it comes to managing your ms symptoms and stress levels, you are priority number one. You can’t help your children if you neglect your own health or stress. See your doctor. Take your medicine. Learn to deal with the emotional strain of MS. Take time to relax and decompress. Get enough sleep. Drink enough water. The basics are important when you are managing MS symptoms and stress - so don’t neglect them.
Get to Know Your Kid(s)
People are all different, and we all show love and want to be shown love in different ways. This is true in all relationships, especially when it comes to parenting. One child may love to cuddle. Another may treasure thoughtful gifts. The problem is that most people show love the way they like to receive it themselves - not the way that the person they love would like to receive it. Think about your child or children and try to determine how they show you their love. Then, try to show them your love in similar ways. When you have MS, you will have good days and bad days. It’s important to make the most impact possible on the good days you have.
Ask For Help If You Need It
It’s not shameful to need help parenting. Whether you share parenting responsibilities with another adult or not, remember that you are not in this alone. Ask for help from the people in your support network when you need it and encourage your children to develop good relationships with positive role models in their lives. If you need additional help beyond your support network, there are government agencies and nonprofits that may be able to provide services to fill the gaps. Contact your local department of health and human services, United Way, your MS support groups, or even your doctor to find resources in your community.
Parenting is a full time job, and when you are dealing with full time MS, it isn’t always easy. The most important thing is to keep doing the best you can with what you’ve been given and stop beating yourself up. Learn more tips for long-term managing your MS symptoms.