How to Face Grief in Multiple Sclerosis

Compárteme

Living between art and multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is a debilitating disease that constantly challenges you. It affects not only your body but also tries to challenge your spirit. Daily, we face losses and unwanted changes that generate a roller coaster of emotions. In fact, a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis comes with a host of symptoms ranging from mobility issues to cognitive (mind) and emotional problems. The disease itself is a challenge that brings a new struggle each day, redefining not only ourselves but also our reality.

Mixed media artwork of a red rose in a turquoise background.

However, one of the heaviest challenges to face is the grief that accompanies a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. It’s not just because we’ve physically lost our health, but because we’ve lost that image we had of ourselves. It’s grief for altered plans and dreams we can no longer fulfill. Honestly, it’s a complex journey that can leave us very fragile.

Mockup of Harmony of Roses: Red with a wooden table and chair, and a bicycle hanging in a gray wall.

Benefits

But in the midst of the problem of living with multiple sclerosis, I found art, which became my zen zone. It has served me as:

Mixed media artwork of a white rose with gold details in a turquoise background.

A Way to Express My Emotions: Sometimes, there are no words to say what we really feel. That’s why painting has helped me channel my feelings in a creative and meaningful way.
Catharsis: When I immerse myself in an art project, I can gradually release and process my feelings. This helps me relieve accumulated emotional tension and feel a bit better.
Empowerment and Self-Expression: In most cases, multiple sclerosis involves losing control over the body and often losing control over daily life. Art allows me to regain some power and control over my own experiences. I have the ability to make creative decisions and experiment with materials. Plus, seeing the results of my work boosts my self-esteem and drives self-expression.
Focusing on the Positive: Through art, I focus on the positive aspects of life and its matters. But above all, I concentrate on the beauty within a world of challenges. With art, I have learned to see beyond the disease. Thus, I can focus on my achievements, strengths, and victories, and it opens up a world of possibilities for me.

Mockup of Harmony of Roses: Red with a wooden table hanging in an ivory wall.

Not Just a Creative Activity

You don’t have to be a genius, nor do you need great skills or talents; art is a personal expression without rules. Through artistic creation, we can capture frustrations, share emotions, and express everything that eludes speech.

Mixed media artwork of a pink rose in a turquoise background.

However, it is important to remember that art is not simply a creative activity but should be seen as a means to explore our identity and strengthen our resilience.