Empowering yet challenging: managing multiple sclerosis in the workplace—an interview study

TL;DR

This study explores how people with multiple sclerosis manage their condition while working, highlighting their strategies and challenges.

Contribution

The study reveals novel insights into the active strategies used by people with MS to adapt and sustain their work lives.

Findings

Participants adapted to MS through self-reflection and practical strategies aligned with their health needs.

They took responsibility for creating a supportive work environment and protecting their health.

Sustainable choices were made based on current and future health considerations.

Abstract

Having a chronic disease such as multiple sclerosis (MS) may pose challenges for affected individuals in their work life. Given its progressive nature and wide range of symptoms, living with MS requires ongoing adaptation. In addition to work accommodations and support, individuals may develop their own strategies to manage their condition at work.

To explore experiences of people with MS (PwMS) in managing MS in the workplace, focusing on strategies they employ to facilitate their work lives and challenges they navigate.

Semi-structured individual interviews were held with 16 working PwMS in Sweden. Interviews were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Three main themes were identified that highlight strategies for managing MS. The theme “Adapting to MS”, included statements on how self-reflection led to strategies more aligned with health needs and understanding the best practices and pitfalls of managing a chronic disease. “Taking responsibility in the workplace” described the participants’ commitment to protect their health at work, and efforts made to create an environment more conducive to MS, and last, “Approaching sustainability” included reports on making sustainable choices in relation to work life.

This study provides insights into the experiences of those living and working with MS. The results demonstrate the active agency in managing their condition. PwMS employed various strategies; concentrating on adapting to MS mentally and practically, taking an active stance for their health, and making choices based not only on their current health status but also on potential future circumstances.

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