Abstract
This article reviews the impact a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) can have emotionally on an individual and his/her significant other, and discusses some of the ways in which the needs of this patient group can be met. The way in which the diagnosis of MS is communicated to the individual and the support he/she receives is known to have a bearing on subsequent coping with life with MS (Johnson, 2003). Response to diagnosis varies, although feelings of abandonment, isolation, anxiety, depression and anger are common reactions for both the patient and his/her partner or family (Porter and Keenan, 2003; Johnson, 2003) and the need for support at this life-changing time is crucial. Continuity of care following diagnosis, access to tailored information as and when required and having a point of contact are all important aspects of care following a diagnosis of MS. The role of the neurologist, the MS specialist nurse and the voluntary agencies in meeting these needs within the context of the wider multi-disciplinary team will be discussed in this article.
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