Communication is
The Key to Strengthening Bonds

Communication is the key to strengthening bonds in families with MS. I'm sure you will agree that living with multiple sclerosis is tough. Navigating it within relationships—whether with family, friends, or partners—adds another layer of complexity.

MS isn’t just a medical condition; it’s something that impacts your interactions, routines, and even the way people see you. That’s why communication is everything.

Yes - Communication is the Key to Strengthening Bonds

Talking openly about MS helps everyone—including you—process the changes, set realistic expectations, and maintain strong, meaningful connections. But let’s be real: conversations about MS aren’t always easy. Some people don’t understand it, some avoid talking about it altogether, and others might unintentionally say the wrong thing. Finding the right way to communicate takes patience, honesty, and sometimes a good sense of humor.

Why Communication Matters

When MS enters the picture, life can shift in ways that aren't always predictable. Symptoms come and go, and plans can change at the last-minute. Sometimes you’re fine one day but struggling the next. If the people around you don’t understand this, frustration—on both sides—can start creeping in. That’s why keeping conversations open and honest within your family is so important.

But here’s the catch: You don’t need to tell everyone everything about your MS. You don’t owe detailed medical reports to casual acquaintances. Nor do you need to explain yourself every time symptoms pop up. The goal is to communicate just enough to help people understand your experience without it feeling like a constant explanation marathon.

Talking to Your Partner:
Navigating Life as a Team

For couples, MS can bring unexpected challenges. Whether it's adjusting daily routines or rethinking future plans, communication is the glue that keeps relationships strong. Partners need to talk—not just about medical things, but about how MS actually impacts daily life.

1. Be Honest About What You Need

MS symptoms can be unpredictable, and your partner might not always know what kind of support you need. One day, you might be completely independent and the next, brain fog hits. Fatigue takes over and even simple tasks feel impossible. Let your partner know when you need help—don’t just assume they automatically understand what you’re going through.

It’s okay to say:

• “I need extra patience today. My fatigue is worse than usual.”
• “I can’t cook tonight. Can we figure out something easy?”
• “I feel okay now, but I might need to rest later.”

These simple conversations prevent misunderstandings and help keep stress levels down between you.

2. MS Isn’t Just Your Battle—It’s a Shared Journey

Your partner might struggle with their own emotions about your diagnosis—fear, frustration, guilt, or even helplessness. MS affects both of you, not just the one who is diagnosed. When you both acknowledge that this journey is a partnership, it makes everyday challenges feel less lonely.

Encourage open discussions by asking questions like:

• “How are you feeling about everything lately?”
• “Is there anything about MS that confuses you?”
• “What helps you feel supported in this situation?”

This reminds them that their feelings matter too. The more you talk and communicate, the stronger your bond becomes.

Explaining MS to Children:
Helping Them Understand

Kids are naturally curious, and if a parent has MS, they’ll notice changes—even if they don’t fully understand them. The key to helping children cope is keeping explanations simple, honest, and reassuring.

1. Use Child-Friendly Language

Rather than diving into medical terms, simplify the concept. For younger kids, something like:

"Mom’s body gets tired sometimes because her nerves don’t send messages the right way. It’s not scary—it’s just something we have to work around."

Older kids might need a bit more detail but avoid making MS sound like a disaster. Reassure them that while MS causes challenges, there are ways to manage it.

2. Address Their Fears (Even the Ones They Don’t Say Out Loud)

Children may worry about things they don’t voice.

• “Will MS get worse?”
• “Can I catch it?”
• “Does this mean we won’t do fun things anymore?”

Instead of ignoring fears, address them head-on. Remind them that MS is not contagious, that there will still be fun moments. Let them know that while some days are harder, there are always ways to adapt.

3. Give Kids a Role, But Don’t Overburden Them

Children—especially older ones—may feel the need to “help” more than they should. While support is great, kids shouldn’t feel like caregivers. Encourage small ways they can be involved without adding pressure:

• Helping with small tasks, like bringing a water bottle or a blanket.
• Understanding when plans change instead of getting upset.
• Being patient during fatigue days or flare-ups.

Empower them without making them feel responsible for your well-being.

Communicating with Friends: Setting Expectations

Sometimes, MS changes friendships. People might not understand why you cancel plans last minute or why you struggle with things that seem “easy.” Instead of getting frustrated, set clear expectations.

1. Be Upfront About What You Can and Can’t Do

If you need extra time, accessibility accommodations, or flexibility with plans, let friends know in advance. It’s better to communicate early than to deal with disappointments later.

For example:

• “I’d love to go out, but I’ll need to take breaks.”
• “I might need to leave early if fatigue kicks in.”
• “Let’s do something low-key so I don’t overdo it.”

Good friends will understand.

2. If Someone Doesn’t Get It, That’s On Them—Not You

Unfortunately, not everyone will be supportive. Some might dismiss your symptoms or act like you’re exaggerating. You don’t have to convince them—instead, focus on people who will listen and respect your reality.

Final Thoughts: The Power of Talking Openly

MS might change certain aspects of your life, but it doesn’t have to weaken your relationships. Clear, honest, and compassionate communication can actually bring people closer together. Whether it’s your partner, kids, friends, or extended family, communication is the key to strengthening bonds.

And remember you are not a burden. The people who love you want to understand, support you, and navigate this journey with you.

So, talk, laugh, share, and lean on the ones who truly listen. You don’t have to do this alone.

Here's a great article about how to help your family and friends understand MS. (Link will open a new window).

Do you agree that communication is the key to strengthening bonds? Would you like to share a comment? If so, use the form below.

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