Mental health at work and MS

Rebecca Armstrong on how to look after yours

The conversation around mental health in the workplace has been gathering pace over the last few years and gradually employers are becoming more aware of their duty of care with regards to creating workplaces which support positive mental wellbeing.

Studies show that people with multiple sclerosis (MS) have higher rates of mental health challenges, such as depression and anxiety, than the general population. As we navigate the ups and downs of living with MS and the impact that has on our day-to-day life and therefore work, it is not surprising that we might face challenges. It is important to know that, in terms of the workplace, mental health and MS can be interwoven. Employers may mistakenly consider MS to be a physical disability without considering the mental implications of living with the condition. Whilst you may be physically able to navigate work, you may need additional support to navigate the impact on your mental health.

If this is sounding familiar then there are things you can do to support yourself and to advocate for the right support in your workplace

• Employers often don’t understand MS and what it entails. That means we may need to explain the impact. Be clear on what MS means for you and how that impacts your role. Write this down so you can articulate it clearly and get the support you need
• Think about what you need in terms of support specifically linked to mental health, think about what aspects of your role are particularly triggering and what could help with that. Meet with your employer to discuss these and agree adjustments
• Request a referral to occupational health, this can be an invaluable support in terms of having someone alongside you to advocate for your needs
• Provide written materials to support the conversation. MS-UK have a range of tools you can point your employer to including free training, visit ms-uk.org/training
• Ensure that when you need to take time out you do so. Your mental health is really important and you are better taking time to recover than making yourself work. Ensure that when this is linked to your MS, you state that clearly, so it is logged and recorded as such. This helps to build understanding of how the two link and affords you protection from discrimination under The Equality Act 2010
• Look on the MSUK website where you can find a range of resources linked to self-care and support. Why not join us for some yoga or mindfulness? Visit ms-uk.org