THE MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA (INC.)

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Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20-35 years; this may pose some challenges relating to working and / or studying with MS.

For some people the impact may be immediate and life changing resulting in a need to reconsider a chosen career path e.g. an attack of optic neuritis in an airline pilot has significant ramifications. For most there are varying degrees of challenge relating to disclosure “who should I tell and what”, concerns about taking time off for appointments and treatments, concerns about managing hidden symptoms, such as fatigue, and their impact on productivity.

The Australian MS Longitudinal Study, a long-term study supported by MS Research Australia, has shown that the majority of people with MS who leave paid employment do so because of the impact of their symptoms, rather than the employer’s reluctance to accommodate for them. Read more at MSRA and see our articles and web site page.

MSWA Occupational Therapists can help you with many aspects regarding issues around employment and have a range of pamphlets dealing with the main issues. Your MS nurse , Neurologist and MSWA counselling services can provide advice on effective symptom management and strategies that could make a great difference.

Reviewing your work environment and processes and making some recommended changes or reducing your hours of work to better manage fatigue levels can minimize the impact and keep you in the work force longer. MSWA Occupational Therapists can provide you with information on managing your fatigue and run Fatigue self management courses regularly.

There are many resources regarding working with MS and also your rights relating to workplace discrimination, superannuation etc. We recommend you discuss any concerns you have with your MS support team before you make any decisions; know your rights, identify your options and make informed, planned decisions.

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