MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS IN THE WORKPLACE

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disorder which affects many of the working population. People who have it may be successful workers for a full lifetime. Others are forced to give up work. Counselling can not only help people who themselves are struggling with the unpredictable and disturbing symptoms of MS, but also their colleagues and families. The article addresses issues for employees with MS and issues raised for a counsellor in the workplace. These include symptoms; issues of control; emotional reactions of people with MS and those around them; questions of behaviour; work anxieties; concealment of MS; the symbolism of MS and of losing work; practical issues and further resources.