Am I doing everything I can to feel well with MS?

Question:  I want to do everything I can to increase my chances of being as well as I can with MS. I take medications prescribed by my neurologist, exercise as much as I can (4x40 minutes/week), eat low fat & low sugar, tons of fish, fruit and vegetables, take vitamin D and meditate. Is there anything more I should do?

Answer:  All of the things you are doing to treat your MS will potentially benefit you in the long run, but there is one thing you failed to mention; are you happy? Happiness is an elusive concept but extremely important to your relationships, health and longevity. The ability to be happy comes naturally to some and requires much more work for others; it is not related to wealth, once basic needs are met, or even to the presence of a normal state of health. And yet achieving happiness and contentment will do as much for your health as most other medical remedies. As a primer I would recommend the following. First, rent the 2011 documentary movie Happy to give you some things to think about. If you prefer a really good drama that explores the search for happiness in a sometimes cruel world, I would also recommend, The Unbearable Lightness of Being (beware of adult content). Last but not least, pick up Daniel Gilbert’s book called, Stumbling on Happiness. It is really a must read. And no matter what you are thinking at this moment, do not dismiss the importance of working on happiness as a key treatment for your MS. Good luck.

--Dr. Kinkel

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