Apple Podcasts | Spotify 

Did you know that nearly half of people living with multiple sclerosis experience depression? MS is more than physical symptoms. It comes with emotional challenges that are often overlooked or misunderstood. Today, we are uncovering five common myths about MS and depression, inspired by a Johns Hopkins Medicine article that brings clarity to this important topic.

Why This Conversation Matters

When I was diagnosed with MS, I quickly realized that fear and anxiety could become just as overwhelming as the physical symptoms. I wanted to know if everything I had read or been told about MS and depression was actually true. The article “5 Myths About Multiple Sclerosis and Depression” by Dr. Abbey Hughes helped shed light on some of the biggest misconceptions.

Here are the key myths and truths you need to know.

Myth 1: Anyone with MS should expect to be depressed

Truth: Not everyone with MS will develop depression. Resilience plays a powerful role. Many people adapt and find strength through the challenges. In fact, only about 50 percent of people with MS will experience depression that interferes with daily functioning at some point in their lives. Resilience is not about being perfect or unaffected. It is about continuing to show up, learn, and grow—even after setbacks.

Myth 2: People with MS and depression always look or act depressed

Truth: Depression may not always appear as sadness. It can show up as irritability, anger, or simply not feeling like yourself. Symptoms like fatigue and cognitive fog overlap with MS, which can make depression harder to detect. Tracking your mood or using questionnaires at appointments may help identify subtle signs that need attention.

Myth 3: Depression and grief are the same

Truth: Grief is a normal reaction to loss, whether that is the loss of a loved one or the loss of an ability. Depression, on the other hand, involves deeper feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, and sometimes suicidal thoughts. After losing my mom and being diagnosed with MS just weeks later, I experienced both grief and depression. Understanding the difference helped me heal. Therapy played a big role in helping me process both, and I always encourage others to consider it.

Myth 4: Visible MS symptoms are the most disabling

Truth: Invisible symptoms like depression, anxiety, and cognitive issues can be even more disabling than physical ones. Fatigue, apathy, and mental health struggles often interfere with daily life in ways others cannot see. It is important to acknowledge these challenges and seek support even when symptoms are not visible.

Myth 5: Fatigue and brain fog are unrelated to depression

Truth: Fatigue and cognitive dysfunction are common in MS but can also be signs of depression. These symptoms can worsen one another. Cognitive evaluations with a neuropsychologist or rehabilitation psychologist can help create a baseline and guide treatment. Approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy or cognitive rehab may offer relief and improve both mood and function.

The Mind-Body Connection in MS

There is a strong link between mental and physical health. Negative emotions and chronic stress can suppress the immune system, making MS symptoms worse. On the other hand, positive thinking, stress reduction, and mindset practices can improve quality of life, reduce pain perception, and support healing.

The Role of Resilience and Support

Living with MS requires mental strength. Developing a positive mindset and surrounding yourself with a supportive community can change how you experience your condition. You are not alone, and you do not have to face MS in silence. A holistic approach to healing means caring for your body, mind, and emotions.

My MS Anthem

To close, I want to share a mindset declaration I wrote during my early days of diagnosis. I still come back to it when I need a reminder of my strength.

I am resilient.
I am empowered in my healing and in my world.
I nourish my body, my way, knowing there are healing choices available to me.
I have good days, I have bad ones. Neither fully define me.
I am not swayed by the inevitable peaks and valleys, not giving away my peace or power to either.
Despite how my body feels in this moment, I honor where I am.
I contradict what MS expects of me, what the world expects of me.
I am on my own path and it won’t look like everyone else’s.
I decide when to rally and when to rest.
I am not a stigma or a symptom. I am a story.
I refuse not to be seen amidst this unseen disease.
I am not a label. I am liberated to have a voice, to have a choice, to go beyond anyone else’s definition of me.
I hold hope like a lantern, lighting a path through a million shadows.
My experience may be standalone, but I do not have to stand alone.
I am more than MS.
I am MSIndependent and today I take my world back.

Want More Encouragement Like This?
Tune into this week’s special episode of My MS Podcast: 🎧 5 Myths About MS and Depression You Need to Stop Believing

Listen now to My MS Podcast