Employers

The most important thing to remember is that, professionally, you are still the same person, even if you have just been diagnosed with MS. Your work experience, value and skillsets are unchanged, but there are considerations to take into account.

Every person experiences different symptoms at different times. For some, this can present a challenge at work, while, for others, very little change is needed. Each patient is different, and it's important to take your time and consider every implication about discussing MS with your employer.

Don't rush into making a decision on giving up work or informing your employer immediately. Take the time to discuss in detail your options with your family, trusted colleague, or healthcare professional.

If you work in certain sectors, such as the armed services, or a role where your symptoms may affect the health and safety of you, your colleagues, or the public, then informing them will most likely be mandatory.

If disclosure is not mandatory, you may need their support further down the line (time off for medical appointments or treatments, for example) then it may help if you decide to tell them.

It may still prove worthwhile telling them so they're aware and can offer support in case things change and symptoms increase, impacting your performance at work.

You may be worried about how your employer will react when you tell them about your MS diagnosis. Research has found that people with MS who tell their employer are more likely to remain employed, and stay in work long term, than those who don’t.