According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five United States adults (about 46.6 million adults aged 18 or over) live with a mental health struggle or illness. These challenges can vary in degree of severity, ranging from mild to moderate to severe. With individual experiencing MS, depression and anxiety are reported in over 50% of the population. Depression and anxiety can be symptoms of MS, they can be caused by the uncertainty of having MS, or they can also be caused by other underlying or pre-existing concerns. In this webinar we will look at what common symptoms are for anxiety and depression, how MS can impact these symptoms, the role of therapy and wellness with managing these symptoms, and discuss a few strategies to consider as you navigate support around mental health struggles.
PRESENTER:
Elissa Berlinger, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and MS Educator. She has been involved with the Rocky Mountain MS Center since 2010, after being diagnosed with MS. She received her Masters in Social Work from Smith College School for Social Work and she completed a two-year clinical fellowship at the University of Colorado Boulder. Through her role with the Rocky Mountain MS Center, she teaches MS 101 with Kelsey Lantz and provides therapeutic support for individuals, families, and loved ones who have been impacted by MS for the Rocky Mountain MS Center. Outside of her work for the Rocky Mountain MS Center, she is in private practice in the Denver area.
If you were not able to tune in, please CLICK HERE to view the webinar.