Relationship Question
Hi Gary and gang,
The weather can affect how we feel physically; and how we feel physically can affect how we feel emotionally. Consequently, a person with any sort of long term or chronic illness is always prone to loneliness, isolation and depression, or any combination of the three. All the more reason to reach out to those who cope with any sort of illness - whether through a blog, email or by phone.
One specific issue that MS patients sometimes deal with, as mentioned in this article is the pseudobulbar affect (PBA). This is a condition that can cause random bouts of extreme emotional outbursts, such as laughing or crying without an obvious trigger. While I don't personally have MS, someone in my life deals with it, someone I love with all my heart and care about a great deal.
While he currently doesn't deal with major challenges of MS on a daily basis, I personally think he is dealing with some emotional issues, yet he doesn't seem to want to admit it or open up about it.
I myself deal with a number of chronic issues, of which depression is one, and has been a part of my existence for a long time. I also have studied psychology, so I know all too well the signs that indicate someone is going through some sort of depression.
I don't know what I can do for this person whom I care about so much. All I want is to be there for him, make him happy and do what I can to make his life better by being a part of it. Can anyone shed some light on this for me? I'd sure appreciate it.
The weather can affect how we feel physically; and how we feel physically can affect how we feel emotionally. Consequently, a person with any sort of long term or chronic illness is always prone to loneliness, isolation and depression, or any combination of the three. All the more reason to reach out to those who cope with any sort of illness - whether through a blog, email or by phone.
One specific issue that MS patients sometimes deal with, as mentioned in this article is the pseudobulbar affect (PBA). This is a condition that can cause random bouts of extreme emotional outbursts, such as laughing or crying without an obvious trigger. While I don't personally have MS, someone in my life deals with it, someone I love with all my heart and care about a great deal.
While he currently doesn't deal with major challenges of MS on a daily basis, I personally think he is dealing with some emotional issues, yet he doesn't seem to want to admit it or open up about it.
I myself deal with a number of chronic issues, of which depression is one, and has been a part of my existence for a long time. I also have studied psychology, so I know all too well the signs that indicate someone is going through some sort of depression.
I don't know what I can do for this person whom I care about so much. All I want is to be there for him, make him happy and do what I can to make his life better by being a part of it. Can anyone shed some light on this for me? I'd sure appreciate it.
Posted by Gary at 1/24/2010 7:24 PM 
Categories: MS community Questions and Answers
Tags: MS community Questions and Answers
Categories: MS community Questions and Answers
Tags: MS community Questions and Answers
Hi, Ella! Thank you for your comment and for sharing your story with us. I would like to offer my opinion about your situation. I can only speak from my perspective. Firstly, this person is very lucky that you care enough about him to seek advice to improve your relationship.
I would like to offer my prospective but if it’s ok with you, I would like to clarify some things. I notice that you mentioned PBA in your question, does the person you are in a relationship with, exhibit these types of unexplained outburst? A second thing I was curious about is if this person shows sign of depression that concerns you?
In general, I would have to say, that you should approach this relationship as any other relationship. It is important for anybody to know that the other person in their relationship is supportive .This can be a little challenging at times because people who have had challenges can also be a little insecure at times. I would suggest that you be there for that person as much as you can without prying too much. The most important thing is when that person is ready to talk about their situation; they should know you will be there. I hope this is helpful to you; however I encourage others to offer some insight to you as well.
Best,
Gary
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i need/ info re:my urtostomy and having a intimate relationship with my husband, he is supre great but doesnt seem to want to address this topic, he is also looking at the loss of his job and having to be a grandpa in july..could i stress him out anymore???
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