It is natural for people to go through periods of feeling worried or low, irritated or tired. Being diagnosed and living with a neurological condition can be difficult. Coming to terms with such illnesses and adapting to the changes that may be required can be hard.
Some common emotional difficulties experienced by people living with a neurological condition include:
Low mood or depression
Worry or anxiety
Frustration, irritation or anger
Sleep problems
Fatigue
It can sometimes be difficult to know why you are feeling this way and what you can do about it. Many people adjust to these changes as they learn more about their own condition and make changes to their life. However, sometimes emotional difficulties can persist and interfere with your day to day life. At these times, it is helpful to seek advice and support.
Self-help
Psychological distress in response to a neurological event or illness is common and not everyone needs to see a psychologist.
The following self-help material can be given to patients by healthcare professionals or accessed directly by patients.
Disclaimer: If your symptoms persist then seek support from your health care team.
Steps for stress is a Scottish Government resource that has online information, booklets and CDs about stress and how to manage it.
Headspace is a meditation app for your phone, or can be accessed via a website on your computer that contains a range of meditation and relaxation exercises. There is a free trial period so you can try it before you consider paying for it.
Moodjuice for anxiety is a paper document that contains information about anxiety and how to manage it. It is based on a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach to understanding and treating anxiety.
Living life to the full is a free online course that covers low mood and stress and some of the common problems they cause.
There are very strong links between activity and positive mental health. Edinburgh City Council can help you find exercise classes in your area.
If you are living with a long-term condition such as MS, Kicc Active offers a range of Yoga, Pilates, Meditation, Hydrotherapy and Thai chi classes across Lothian.
Moodjuice for depression is a paper document that contains information about depression and how to manage it. It is based on a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach to understanding and treating anxiety.
Cognition
Brain training
There is growing evidence about the brain’s ability to form and reorganise connections following learning, experience and injury. Brain training involves the completion of exercises that target different cognitive skills such as memory or concentration. The benefits of such an approach vary and unfortunately may not reverse the cognitive problems that result from your neurological illness or injury. Nevertheless, some people find them beneficial when combined with other strategies to maximise everyday functioning. One app you may wish to consider is Brainwell. It has a free trial period so you can test it out before you consider paying for it.
General Mental Health Resources
Headway have created a factsheet resource to provide information and guidance to those who are suffering from mental health problems after a brain injury.
The NHS have some useful self-help guides that cover a range of mental health problems.
Breathing space is a free helpline you can call to talk through your troubles.Their free contact number is:
0800 83 85 87
Counselling
If you feel that counselling would be a better option for you, there is information on the NHS website about counselling and where you can find counselling services near you.
